What does it mean to strive to match or surpass someone or something?

To strive to match or surpass someone or something means to seek to match their level of success or excellence, often with the intent to exceed it. The term "emulate" specifically conveys this idea, as it implies not just copying or mimicking someone, but rather aspiring to achieve a similar standing or even do better than them. Emulation involves learning from others and gaining inspiration from their achievements, which motivates improvement and personal or professional development.

In contrast, terms like "imitate," "copy," and "follow" generally suggest a more passive approach. While they might involve similarities, they do not inherently convey the same proactive drive to surpass or compete with the original source of inspiration. Thus, emulating demonstrates a strong intention to improve oneself relative to another, aligning precisely with the idea of striving to match or exceed someone else's accomplishments.