Copy vs. Photocopy: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Copy refers to creating a duplicate of an original item, while photocopy specifically denotes the process of using a machine to make a photographic replica of a document.
Key Differences
Copy is a broader term that includes any form of duplication, whether it's a document, a work of art, or digital content, while photocopy specifically refers to the process of creating a paper replica of a document using a photocopying machine.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copying can be done in various ways, including handwriting, printing, or digital replication, whereas photocopying is a specific process involving light, mirrors, and toner to replicate documents.
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Dec 09, 2023
In digital contexts, a copy can refer to duplicating files, texts, or images electronically, which is different from photocopying that exclusively replicates physical documents.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy can also refer to imitating a style, method, or work, beyond just duplicating documents, while photocopying is limited to creating a visual replica of a document's appearance.
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Dec 09, 2023
In intellectual property, making a copy of a copyrighted work can involve various methods and media, differing from photocopying which is a physical, often direct, duplication process.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Creating a duplicate of an original item in various forms
Making a photographic replica of a document using a machine
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Dec 09, 2023
Methods
Handwriting, printing, digital replication
Using a photocopy machine with light and toner
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Dec 09, 2023
Range
Broader, includes various media and forms
Specific to paper document reproduction
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Dec 09, 2023
Context
Can include imitation or replication in style or content
Limited to duplicating the appearance of a document
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Dec 09, 2023
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Copy and Photocopy Definitions
Copy
A duplicate of an original item.
She kept a copy of the contract in her files.
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Dec 09, 2023
Photocopy
To duplicate a document using a photocopier.
She photocopied her passport for the visa application.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
A reproduction of a work of art.
The museum displayed a copy of the famous painting.
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Dec 09, 2023
Photocopy
A process involving light and toner to replicate documents.
He fixed the jam in the machine to resume photocopying.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
An imitation or reproduction of an original; a duplicate
A copy of a painting.
Made two copies of the letter.
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Oct 19, 2023
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Photocopy
A paper replica of a document made using a photocopy machine.
Can you make a photocopy of this report for the meeting?
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
(Computers) A file that has the same data as another file
Stored on the server a copy of every document.
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Oct 19, 2023
Photocopy
A term used for duplicates made specifically by a photocopier.
They needed a photocopy of each attendee's ID for the records.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
One example of a printed text, picture, film, or recording
An autographed copy of a novel.
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Oct 19, 2023
Photocopy
A machine-produced replica of a physical document.
The office manager ordered more toner for the photocopy machine.
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Dec 09, 2023
Photocopy
To make a photographic reproduction of (printed or graphic material), especially by xerography.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
To make a reproduction or copy of
Copied the note letter for letter.
Copied the file to a disk.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
To include as an additional recipient of a written communication
Please copy me when you reply to her.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
To hear clearly or understand something said by radio communication
Mayday. Do you copy?.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
The result of copying; an identical duplicate of an original.
Please bring me the copies of those reports.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
An imitation, sometimes of inferior quality.
That handbag is a copy. You can tell because the buckle is different.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
The output of copywriters, who are employed to write material which encourages consumers to buy goods or services.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
(uncountable) The text of newspaper articles.
Submit all copy to the appropriate editor.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
(transitive) To produce an object identical to a given object.
Please copy these reports for me.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
(transitive) To give or transmit a copy to (a person).
Make sure you copy me on that important memo.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
(transitive) To imitate.
Don't copy my dance moves.
Mom, he's copying me!
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
An abundance or plenty of anything.
She was blessed with no more copy of wit, but to serve his humor thus.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
Manuscript or printed matter to be set up in type; as, the printers are calling for more copy.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
A writing paper of a particular size. Same as Bastard. See under Paper.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 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.
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
A secondary representation of an original;
She made a copy of the designer dress
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
Material suitable for a journalistic account;
Catastrophes make good copy
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
Copy down as is;
The students were made to copy the alphabet over and over
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
Reproduce someone's behavior or looks;
The mime imitated the passers-by
Children often copy their parents or older siblings
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
Biology: reproduce or make an exact copy of;
Replicate the cell
Copy the genetic information
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Oct 19, 2023
Copy
To replicate text or data, especially in computing.
He made a copy of the file to his external hard drive.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
To imitate or replicate a style or method.
The young artist tried to copy the techniques of the masters.
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Dec 09, 2023
Copy
A version or edition of a book or publication.
I have an early copy of her debut novel.
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Dec 09, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is photocopying limited to paper?
Yes, photocopying specifically involves duplicating paper documents.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can copy refer to digital files?
Yes, copy can refer to duplicating digital files.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can you make a copy of a painting?
Yes, reproductions of paintings are considered copies.
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Dec 09, 2023
Does making a copy always involve a machine?
No, copies can be made by hand or digitally without a machine.
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Dec 09, 2023
What is the purpose of copywriting?
Copywriting is the art of creating persuasive and engaging written content for advertising and marketing purposes.
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Dec 09, 2023
Is photocopying the same as scanning?
No, scanning creates a digital file, while photocopying creates a paper duplicate.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can "copy" also refer to an imitation of something?
Yes, "copy" can refer to a replica or imitation of an object or style.
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Dec 09, 2023
Is a photocopy the same as a printout?
No, a photocopy is a reproduction of an existing document, while a printout typically refers to a new document or image created by a printer.
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Dec 09, 2023
What is the advantage of making photocopies?
Making photocopies allows for the quick and efficient duplication of documents for various purposes, such as distribution or record-keeping.
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Dec 09, 2023
Is "copy" used in the context of written content only?
No, "copy" can refer to text, images, or any content that is duplicated or reproduced.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can color photocopies be made, or are they usually in black and white?
Color photocopies can be made, but photocopiers are often capable of producing both color and black-and-white copies.
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Dec 09, 2023
Can double-sided photocopies be made?
Yes, many photocopiers have the capability to make double-sided copies, known as duplex printing.
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Dec 09, 2023
What is a photocopying service, and where can I find one?
A photocopying service offers the use of photocopiers for a fee and can be found in libraries, print shops, and office supply stores.
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Dec 09, 2023
Are there any environmental concerns related to photocopying?
Excessive photocopying can contribute to paper waste, so it's important to consider eco-friendly practices like double-sided copying and recycling used paper.
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Dec 09, 2023
What is a collated photocopy?
A collated photocopy is a set of copies where the pages are in the same order as the original document.
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Dec 09, 2023
How is the cost of photocopying typically calculated?
The cost of photocopying is often calculated per page, and it can vary depending on factors like paper size, color, and the service provider.
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Dec 09, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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