mimics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mimics" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that imitates or resembles another thing, often in a way that is intended to replicate its characteristics or behavior. Example: "The new software mimics the functionality of the original program, making it easier for users to transition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It mimics a war and is more serious than youth violence".

The Guardian

He mimics her looking at him from above her glasses like a stern headmistress: "What is your problem?

The Guardian

Seneca himself mimics the accusations of his critics, who ask, "Why do you talk so much better than you live?"Perhaps, in theory, the philosophical ideal could be achieved in life.

The Guardian - Books

In Breaking the Spell, Dennett quotes Pascal Boyer, who suggests that music is a supernormal stimulus which mimics and heightens the effects of speech, and that we make symmetrical patterns with textiles, buildings, gadgets to deliberately "overstimulate [our] visual cortex".

The Guardian - Tech

And perhaps the finding and matching of objects mimics tasks our brains are good at, but don't get to do very much any more, like searching for ripe fruit in tangled thickets, or picking stones out of dried lentils.

The Guardian - Tech

The easy way to think of Xiaomi is as a Chinese smartphone maker which mimics Apple's designs.

The Guardian - Tech

The second blast – timed to go off as people rescued the victims from the first one – mimics the tactics used in earlier blasts by the group.

The Guardian

This mimics the production methods of the better Czech and German lagers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Anns Hill is a handsome 18th-century house whose design mimics Wordsworth's childhood home in Cockermouth, two miles away.

The Guardian - Travel

The aim is to create a less opaque European system that mimics national politics.

The Economist

But in Malaysia, at least, a large number of Myrmarachne are poor mimics of particular ants.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mimics", consider the degree of similarity you want to convey. If you need to emphasize a precise replication, "replicates" might be more suitable. If the similarity is more general, "resembles" could be a better choice.

Common error

Avoid overuse by actively trying to substitute alternative terms such as "imitates", "replicates", or "emulates" to add variety and nuance to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The verb "mimics" functions as a transitive verb, indicating that something is imitating or resembling something else. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe how one thing copies the behavior, appearance, or function of another. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term follows the standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb "mimics" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe the act of imitating or resembling something. Ludwig AI's analysis and numerous examples showcase its versatility across various contexts, from news articles to scientific publications. The phrase is of neutral register, making it appropriate for both formal and informal writing. While "mimics" is a strong choice, remember to consider alternatives such as "imitates", "replicates", or "emulates" for nuanced expression. Be aware of overuse, and actively vary your word choice to enhance clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imitates

Direct synonym, suggesting a close replication of actions or appearance.

replicates

Implies a precise duplication, often in a scientific or technical context.

emulates

Suggests an effort to match or surpass the original, often with admiration.

mirrors

Indicates a reflection or close correspondence in appearance or behavior.

resembles

Denotes a similarity in appearance or qualities, without necessarily implying direct imitation.

copies

Implies a direct and often less sophisticated form of imitation.

simulates

Suggests creating a model or representation that behaves like the original.

parodies

Imitates for humorous or satirical effect.

echoes

Suggests a faint or indirect resemblance.

approximates

Indicates a close but not exact likeness.

FAQs

How is "mimics" used in a sentence?

The word "mimics" is used to describe something that imitates or closely resembles another thing. For example, "The software "mimics" the functionality of the original program".

What are some synonyms for "mimics"?

Some synonyms for "mimics" include "imitates", "replicates", "emulates", and "mirrors".

When should I use "mimics" versus "replicates"?

"Mimics" is suitable when describing a general resemblance, whereas "replicates" implies a more precise and exact duplication. Consider the context to determine which word best fits the degree of similarity.

Is it correct to use "mimics" when describing a person's actions?

Yes, "mimics" can be used to describe a person's actions. For instance, "He "mimics" the sound of a 55-metre-long rotor whirling round a windmill's mast".