WordGarden.iocopy
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒpi/
US
- /ˈkɑpi/
Meanings
Verb
to make a duplicate or reproduction of something
to place selected digital data so it can be pasted elsewhere
to imitate someone's behavior, style, or work
More meaningsFewer meanings
to receive or understand a transmitted message
Noun
a duplicate or reproduction of an original
written material prepared for publication or advertising
Beyond the definition
To copy something means to make a duplicate of it—whether it is a document, an action, or even someone's style! Think about making a photocopy of a paper or a child copying their parents' behavior. Sometimes, "copy" is used as a noun; the photocopy itself is called a copy. A clever artist might copy the style of a famous painter but add their own unique twist. Be careful, though—while imitation can be flattering, copying someone else's work without permission is usually not okay!
The word "copy" has several layers of meaning, all revolving around the idea of reproduction or imitation. At its most basic, to copy is to create a duplicate of something—a document, an image, data on a computer, or even handwriting. For instance, you might make a copy of a contract before sending it off.
However, copying isn't limited to physical objects. We often copy behaviors—children learn by copying their parents, and students might copy notes from a classmate to catch up on a lesson. It can also refer to imitating someone's style or mannerisms: "He copied the singer's flamboyant stage presence." This is where things get interesting: while learning from someone involves copying aspects of their technique, simply replicating someone else's work without adding originality is often frowned upon.
As a noun, "copy" refers to the duplicate itself, such as a backup copy of a digital file. It also has a specific meaning in the world of media and marketing, where it refers to text written for an advertisement or publication: "The ad copy was very persuasive."
In everyday computer use, we also copy and paste text, images, or files from one place to another. In email, you might "copy" someone on a message (put them in CC) so they can see the conversation.
In the digital age, "copy" has specific technical meanings related to data duplication and storage. Also, in legal terms, copyright laws exist to protect original works from being copied or distributed without the creator's permission. In radio talk, "copy" can even mean "I understand": "Copy that." Whether you are backing up your files, learning a new skill by observing others, or protecting intellectual property, the concept of "copy" is fundamentally about creating something modeled after an original.
Examples
- 1
Polite request
Could you make two copies of this form, please?
- 2
Digital backup
I keep a copy of my passport on my phone.
- 3
Art object
This painting is a copy, not the original.
- 4
File transfer
Please copy the file to a USB drive.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Writing down
She copied the address into her notebook.
- 6
Test cheating
He was caught copying from another student during the test.
- Patterncopy from + person
use their work dishonestly
- 7
Imitation
My little brother copies everything I do.
- 8
Email sharing
I'll copy you on the email so you can follow the discussion.
- Patterncopy someone on an email
send them the email too
- 9
Printed document
Do you want a hard copy, or is a PDF enough?
- Phrasehard copy
a printed version, not a digital one
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- copynounverb
Forms
- copiespluralnounverb
- copiedpast tenseverbnoun
- copying-ing formverbnoun