The phrase "direct imitation" refers to copying someone or something exactly as it is, without making any changes or additions. It is when you imitate something or someone in a very precise and identical way. Full definition
Mostly, a cover letter is written in direct imitation of the corresponding resume. (coverlettersandresume.com)
Originally it was called Catholicism in Crisis, in direct imitation of C&C, founding editor Michael Novak being a great fan of Niebuhr. (firstthings.com)
After 1850, Hunt, along with Millais moved away from direct imitation of medieval art. (visual-arts-cork.com)