模倣 and 模範: Imitating and serving as a model
Compare imitating an expert’s movements with a model composition or exemplary punctual behavior. A model being presented does not establish that someone has already imitated it.
Following another person’s movements
模倣 means imitation. 「初心者は名人の動きを模倣して練習した。」 describes beginners practicing by imitating an expert’s movements. 名人の動き identifies the target of imitation.
「単なる模倣ではなく、自分なりの工夫を加えたい。」 expresses wanting to add one’s own ideas rather than stopping at simple imitation. 加えたい is a wish, not a statement that an original work has already been completed.
A composition or attitude as a model
模範 means a model or example to follow. 「先生が黒板に作文の模範を示した。」 says a teacher presented a model composition on the board.
「時間を守る彼の態度は皆の模範になっている。」 presents punctual behavior as an example to everyone. The exemplary target can be behavior as well as a piece of writing.
An act of imitation and an exemplary role
模倣 describes following another target’s actions. 模範 identifies writing or behavior presented as a model. Presenting a model does not itself state that someone has copied it.
The beginners’ practice shows imitation used in learning. Do not judge every imitation as harmful or restrict 模範 to compositions.
If a teacher presents a 模範 composition, does that alone mean a student has already engaged in 模倣?
Show the answer and why
No. 模範 identifies the model presented, while 模倣 describes following it. Distinguish the presentation of a model from the performance of imitation.