What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
artificial
Example
She bought an artificial Christmas tree because it's more convenient. [artificial: adjective]
Example
The flowers in her garden were so beautiful, I thought they were artificial. [artificial: adjective]
imitation
Example
He wore an imitation Rolex watch that looked just like the real thing. [imitation: adjective]
Example
The artist created an amazing imitation of Van Gogh's famous painting. [imitation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Artificial is more commonly used than imitation in everyday language. Artificial is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while imitation is more specific and commonly used when referring to replicas or copies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between artificial and imitation?
Both artificial and imitation can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, artificial is generally more formal and can be used in scientific or technical discussions, while imitation is more commonly used in everyday conversations.
