replicate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
replicate Word Meanings
- to make a copy or reproducing something
- to repeat an experiment or study
- to reproduce an effect or result
replicate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
replicate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈrɛp.lɪ.keɪt/
US
/ˈrɛp.lɪ.keɪt/
replicate Word Etymology
re- = again, plicare = to fold. From Latin through Old French to English. Imagine a scientist carefully folding and unfolding a paper to create a perfect copy of their findings.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Replicate means to make a copy of something or to reproduce something closely, and it is used across everyday life and science. You might replicate a recipe, a document, or a toy model by following the same steps again to get a very similar result. In science, to replicate an experiment or study is to repeat the procedure under similar conditions to see if the same results occur. Researchers aim to replicate findings to confirm reliability and to test whether an effect holds across different samples. Etymologically, it comes from re- meaning again and plicare meaning to fold, a Latin root carried into English via Old French, evoking careful folding and unfolding to produce an exact copy.
Usage Reminders
- • Replicate = exact copy or close reproduction; don’t use for imitation with differences
- • In science, pair with a noun: replicate a result, replicate an experiment, replicate a study
- • Distinguish from reproduce and repeat
- • Use passive forms: was replicated, needs to be replicated
- • Avoid using with people; you replicate objects, results, or procedures
Common Misconceptions
- Replicate always means to imitate or copy exactly without variation
- Replicate is only used in lab science; not in everyday life
- To replicate a result means you created a new, original finding
- Replicate and reproduce are identical synonyms
- You can replicate a person’s actions or identity
Thinking Differences
English speakers often value precision in science terms; replicate connotes exactness and repeatability, while imitate or copy imply less fidelity. Learners may mix up replicate with reproduce or repeat, and may overgeneralize to everyday copying of people or unique items.
Learning Tips
- Learn core collocations: replicate a result, replicate an experiment, replicate a study
- Keep straight with reproduce, repeat, imitate
- Use passive voice: was replicated, needs to be replicated
- Practice with scientific contexts and datasets
- Remember the etymology: re- and plicare
- Check whether you are copying procedures or merely reproducing findings
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'replicate' mean?
A.To organize efficiently
B.To destroy completely
C.To analyze deeply
D.To imitate or reproduce something
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'replicate' correctly?
A.He replicated the town with violence.
B.She replicated the project with great care.
C.They replicated the dream sweetly.
D.I replicated the recipe with clumsiness.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'replicate'?
A.Eradicate
B.Duplicate
C.Restrict
D.Examine
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'replicate'?
A.Imitate
B.Eliminate
C.Compete
D.Assist
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you need to replicate something?
A.In a scientific experiment
B.In a dance competition
C.In a cooking show
D.In a marathon
Related Listening
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