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copy
/ˈkɒpi/
reproduction of text or images
I need to make a copy of this document for the meeting.
A duplicate version of the original document.
general
a thing made to be similar or identical to another
The museum displayed a copy of the original painting.
A replica that is not the original artwork.
Used for physical or digital reproductions.
journalismmarketing
written material intended for publication
The copy for the advertisement was approved by the client.
The text content written for promotional purposes.
Short for 'advertising copy'.
general
to make a similar or identical version of something
She copied the file to her USB drive.
Duplicated the digital file.
Can imply illegal duplication (e.g., pirated content).
informal
to imitate or mimic someone's behavior or speech
The child copied his father's accent perfectly.
Imitated the way his father spoke.
Often used in educational contexts.
Collocations
make a copycreate a duplicatephotocopyduplicate using a copiercarbon copyexact duplicate (from old typing method)rough copydraft versionfinal copycompleted version
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing meanings
Pay attention to context: 'copy' as a noun often refers to a physical or digital duplicate, while as a verb it means to create such a duplicate or to imitate behavior.
Gold Rule
Legal implications
Be cautious when using 'copy' in contexts involving intellectual property. Unauthorized copying may violate copyright laws.
Word Origin
From Latin 'copia' meaning 'abundance' or 'plenty', via Old French 'copie'. Originally referred to abundance of material before shifting to mean 'reproduction' in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
In modern usage, 'copy' can refer to physical duplicates (e.g., paper copies) or digital duplicates. In marketing, 'copy' specifically means the written content of an advertisement. The verb form often implies intentional replication.
Word Breakdown
cop-
from Latin 'copia' (abundance)
root-y
forms nouns from adjectives/verbs
suffixEnglish Dictionary