English Vocabulary — Synonyms (closest meaning) Choose the single word that is CLOSEST in meaning to the highlighted verb in the sentence below. Sentence: When youngsters do not have good role models to emulate, they start searching for them among sportspersons or film stars. Target word: emulate

Introduction / Context:
Guidance and career-counseling language frequently uses the verb “emulate.” It describes following someone’s example with the intention of matching or surpassing their achievements. This goes beyond admiration; it implies patterned behavior or performance modeled on another person.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target verb: “emulate.”
• Context: youths seeking role models in sports and cinema.
• We must choose the closest single-word synonym.

Concept / Approach:

The best single-word substitute for “emulate” is “imitate.” Although “emulate” can carry an additional sense of trying to equal or excel, the core action is imitation of a model. The other options either change the action type or are unrelated semantically.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Parse the sentence: looking for role models to follow.2) Define emulate as “to imitate, often with the aim to equal/exceed.”3) Select “imitate” as the closest single-word replacement.4) Eliminate distractors that alter meaning (modify, mollify, inhabit, adopt).

Verification / Alternative check:

Substitute: “role models to imitate” keeps the intention and grammar, verifying the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

modify: Change/alter; not follow a model.mollify: Soothe/pacify; unrelated.inhabit: Live in; unrelated.adopt: Take up/accept; too broad; lacks the “copy” nuance.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming “emulate” always implies superiority. The central action is still imitation; success level is secondary.

Final Answer:

imitate