Photocopy vs. Copy: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 8, 2023
Photocopy refers to a duplicate produced using a photocopier, while copy can mean any duplicate or replica, regardless of the method used.
Key Differences
Photocopy and copy both pertain to the idea of duplication, but they differ in scope and method. Photocopy specifically refers to a reproduction made using a machine that employs light and photocopying technology. Copy, on the other hand, encompasses a wider range of duplication methods and can be applied to various contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
For instance, if you use a photocopier to reproduce a document, you've made a photocopy. In contrast, if you rewrite or type out the same document manually, you've made a copy.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Photocopy, by definition, implies the use of a specific type of machine. Its roots lie in the technology of photo reproduction. Copy doesn't necessitate any particular device; it's a general term signifying replication or imitation.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
In digital realms, to "copy" means to duplicate data, such as files or text. However, "photocopy" retains its tangible, machine-oriented connotation and is rarely used in digital contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Both photocopy and copy play essential roles in various fields, from academics to businesses. While photocopy denotes a specific kind of reproduction, copy provides a broader interpretation, spanning across different media and methods.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Duplicate made using a photocopier.
A replica or duplicate, regardless of method.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Method
Requires a photocopier.
Can be any method, including manual or digital.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
Contextual Usage
Specific to photocopier machine.
Broad, spanning multiple contexts and media.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
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Photocopy and Copy Definitions
Photocopy
A duplicate made using light-sensitive paper.
She handed me a photocopy of the original document.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 29, 2023
Photocopy
Reproduction using a machine that copies using photocopying technology.
The teacher provided a photocopy of the assignment to every student.
Harlon Moss
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
A particular edition or version of a text.
The editor reviewed the final copy before publication.
Harlon Moss
Sep 29, 2023
Photocopy
A printed replica produced by a photocopier.
The photocopy was almost as clear as the original.
Harlon Moss
Sep 29, 2023
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Copy
An individual specimen of a publication.
I bought the last copy of the magazine.
Sara Rehman
Sep 29, 2023
Photocopy
A tangible duplicate made through a photomechanical process.
The photocopy machine was out of ink.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
An imitation or reproduction of an original; a duplicate
A copy of a painting.
Made two copies of the letter.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Photocopy
An imitation made by capturing an image through light.
I kept the photocopy of the receipt for my records.
Sara Rehman
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
(Computers) A file that has the same data as another file
Stored on the server a copy of every document.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Photocopy
To make a photographic reproduction of (printed or graphic material), especially by xerography.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
One example of a printed text, picture, film, or recording
An autographed copy of a novel.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To make a reproduction or copy of
Copied the note letter for letter.
Copied the file to a disk.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To include as an additional recipient of a written communication
Please copy me when you reply to her.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To hear clearly or understand something said by radio communication
Mayday. Do you copy?.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
The result of copying; an identical duplicate of an original.
Please bring me the copies of those reports.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
An imitation, sometimes of inferior quality.
That handbag is a copy. You can tell because the buckle is different.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
The output of copywriters, who are employed to write material which encourages consumers to buy goods or services.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
(uncountable) The text of newspaper articles.
Submit all copy to the appropriate editor.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
A printed edition of a book or magazine.
Have you seen the latest copy of "Newsweek" yet?
The library has several copies of the Bible.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
(obsolete) That which is to be imitated, transcribed, or reproduced; a pattern, model, or example.
His virtues are an excellent copy for imitation.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
(transitive) To produce an object identical to a given object.
Please copy these reports for me.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
(transitive) To give or transmit a copy to (a person).
Make sure you copy me on that important memo.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To place a copy of an object in memory for later use.
First copy the files, and then paste them in another directory.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
An abundance or plenty of anything.
She was blessed with no more copy of wit, but to serve his humor thus.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
An imitation, transcript, or reproduction of an original work; as, a copy of a letter, an engraving, a painting, or a statue.
I have not the vanity to think my copy equal to the original.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
An individual book, or a single set of books containing the works of an author; as, a copy of the Bible; a copy of the works of Addison.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
That which is to be imitated, transcribed, or reproduced; a pattern, model, or example; as, his virtues are an excellent copy for imitation.
Let him first learn to write, after a copy, all the letters.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Manuscript or printed matter to be set up in type; as, the printers are calling for more copy.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To make a copy or copies of; to write; print, engrave, or paint after an original; to duplicate; to reproduce; to transcribe; as, to copy a manuscript, inscription, design, painting, etc.; - often with out, sometimes with off.
I like the work well; ere it be demanded(As like enough it will), I'd have it copied.
Let this be copied out,And keep it safe for our remembrance.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To imitate; to attempt to resemble, as in manners or course of life.
We copy instinctively the voices of our companions, their accents, and their modes of pronunciation.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
To yield a duplicate or transcript; as, the letter did not copy well.
Some . . . never fail, when they copy, to follow the bad as well as the good things.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
A secondary representation of an original;
She made a copy of the designer dress
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Material suitable for a journalistic account;
Catastrophes make good copy
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Copy down as is;
The students were made to copy the alphabet over and over
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Reproduce someone's behavior or looks;
The mime imitated the passers-by
Children often copy their parents or older siblings
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Biology: reproduce or make an exact copy of;
Replicate the cell
Copy the genetic information
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 29, 2023
Copy
Written text, especially for advertisements or media.
The ad copy was catchy and compelling.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 29, 2023
FAQs
An individual specimen of a publication.
I bought the last copy of the magazine.
Harlon Moss
Nov 08, 2023
Written text, especially for advertisements or media.
The ad copy was catchy and compelling.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 08, 2023
A particular edition or version of a text.
The editor reviewed the final copy before publication.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 08, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
