What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
echolalia
Example
The child with autism displayed echolalia by repeating everything the teacher said. [echolalia: noun]
Example
He couldn't help but engage in echolalia when he heard a catchy jingle on the radio. [echolalia: verb]
imitation
Example
She was able to learn the dance moves quickly through imitation of the instructor. [imitation: noun]
Example
He imitated his boss's mannerisms and speech patterns to try to impress him. [imitated: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imitation is more commonly used than echolalia in everyday language. Imitation is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while echolalia is less common and is typically associated with specific developmental disorders.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between echolalia and imitation?
Both echolalia and imitation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although echolalia may be more commonly used in medical or psychological settings.
