The Open Dictionary

copy

noun

UK/ˈkɒp.i/
US/ˈkɑː.pi/

Definitions of copy noun

version

  1. B1Countable

    An item that has been created to be identical to another.

    • This artwork is just a copy; the original is displayed in the Louvre.

    • I always retain a copy of any official or significant letters I send.

    • Could you make a copy of this document for tomorrow's meeting?

  2. B2Countable

    A single instance of a book, newspaper, recording, or another printed or recorded material.

    • The library keeps copies of all national and local newspapers.

    • Could you lend me a copy of your report?

    • They printed many copies of the flyer.

text

  1. Uncountable

    Written material intended for printing, or text designed to promote a product.

    • We need someone to write excellent copy for our marketing department.

    • The copy for this advertisement is very persuasive.

    • She's good at writing compelling website copy.

verb

UK/ˈkɒp.i/
US/ˈkɑː.pi/

Definitions of copy verb

reproduce

  1. A2TransitiveIntransitive

    To create something that is identical to an original piece of work.

    • They copied the basic design from a Japanese model and added some of their own enhancements.

    • He copied her photos onto his computer.

    • Students should not copy during exams.

imitate

  1. B2TransitiveIntransitive

    To imitate the way someone behaves, dresses, or speaks, often due to admiration.

    • He often copies the way his brother dresses.

    • Many young people try to copy the behaviors of their favorite celebrities.

    • Children often copy the way their parents talk.

Phrases of copy verb

  • copy and paste

    To transfer data from one location to another within a digital environment by replicating it and then inserting it in the new location.

    • A large number of students confess to copying and pasting text directly from various websites.

Phrasal Verbs of copy

  • copy something out

    To transcribe a piece of writing by hand onto paper.

    • For my homework at school, I need to copy this article out.

  • copy something down

    to transcribe something spoken or written to ensure future recall

    • In class, the students need to copy down the teacher's explanations for future review.

  • copy someone in

    to include someone in the recipients of an email by sending them a copy you are sending to another person

    • When sending the email to the team, she copied the manager in.