What is the term for matching or surpassing by imitation?

The term that best describes the act of matching or surpassing by imitation is "emulate." When someone emulates another person, they not only imitate their behavior or actions but also strive to achieve the same level of success, effectively aspiring to match or exceed that person's achievements.

Emulation often carries a connotation of respect and a desire for self-improvement through learning from others. It goes beyond simple imitation by suggesting a deeper level of engagement with the subject being copied, as the individual aims to reach or surpass their level of proficiency or achievement.

In contrast, imitation generally refers to copying someone without the intent to surpass them. Replication implies creating a copy without necessarily considering the aspect of improvement or striving for excellence. Copying indicates a more straightforward act of duplicating what someone else has done, often without the aspirational quality of emulation. Hence, emulating is the most accurate term for the act of matching or surpassing by imitation.