Photocopy vs. Xerox: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A photocopy is a duplicate of a document or image made using a photocopier, while Xerox, originally a brand name, is often used synonymously for photocopying.
Key Differences
Photocopy refers to the process or product of making a duplicate copy of a document or image using a photocopier machine. Xerox, originally the name of a company that manufactures photocopiers, has become a generic term for photocopying in some regions.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 24, 2023
The term photocopy is used universally to describe the act of duplicating documents. Xerox, as a brand name, specifically refers to the photocopies made using Xerox brand machines, but has also become a verb in common language, meaning to make a photocopy.
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Nov 24, 2023
Photocopying is a widely used term in both formal and informal contexts, applicable to any brand of photocopier. The use of Xerox in place of photocopy is more prevalent in certain areas and can be considered an example of a brand name becoming a generic term.
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Nov 24, 2023
A photocopy is understood globally as a copy of a document made by a photocopying machine, regardless of the brand. Xerox, while understood in many regions as synonymous with photocopying, is still recognized as a trademarked brand name by the company.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 24, 2023
The process of photocopying involves using light, heat, or chemicals to transfer an image or text onto paper. Using Xerox as a verb (e.g., to Xerox a document) is a colloquial expression that derives specifically from the brand's widespread use and popularity in the field of photocopying.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 24, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A duplicate made using a photocopier.
A brand name, often used to mean photocopying.
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Nov 24, 2023
Usage
Universal term for document duplication.
Used as a synonym for photocopy in some regions.
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Nov 24, 2023
Brand Association
Not associated with any specific brand.
Trademarked by the Xerox Corporation.
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Global Recognition
Recognized globally in various contexts.
Recognized but more as a brand in some areas.
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Photocopy and Xerox Definitions
Photocopy
The act of creating a copy of a document.
Photocopying the textbook pages was quicker than typing.
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Xerox
To make a photocopy, especially using a Xerox machine.
Can you Xerox these documents for me?
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Nov 24, 2023
Photocopy
To duplicate a document using a photocopier.
She photocopied the report for the meeting.
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Nov 24, 2023
Xerox
A brand name for a photocopying machine.
The Xerox machine in the library is out of order.
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Nov 24, 2023
Photocopy
A process of reproducing text and images.
The office assistant handled all the photocopying tasks.
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Xerox
A company known for manufacturing photocopiers.
Xerox Corporation has been a leader in document technology.
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Photocopy
A machine used for making copies of documents.
The photocopy machine needs new toner.
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Nov 24, 2023
Xerox
A copy made using a Xerox brand photocopier.
He handed out Xeroxes of the presentation slides.
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Photocopy
A paper copy of a document made with a photocopier.
He made a photocopy of his driver's license.
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Nov 24, 2023
Photocopy
To make a photographic reproduction of (printed or graphic material), especially by xerography.
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Oct 19, 2023
Xerox
To make a paper copy or copies by means of a photocopier.
I xeroxed the report for all the people at the meeting.
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Oct 19, 2023
Xerox
Duplicator that copies graphic matter by the action of light on an electrically charged photoconductive insulating surface in which the latent image is developed with a resinous powder
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Oct 19, 2023
Xerox
Used colloquially to mean photocopying.
I'll Xerox the agenda for everyone in the meeting.
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Nov 24, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is Xerox a generic term for photocopying?
In some regions, Xerox is used generically to mean photocopying.
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Nov 24, 2023
What is a photocopy?
A photocopy is a duplicate of a document made using a photocopier.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can any brand of copier make a photocopy?
Yes, photocopies can be made using any brand of photocopier.
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Nov 24, 2023
Is photocopying the same as scanning?
No, photocopying produces a paper copy, while scanning creates a digital version.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can Xerox machines only make copies?
No, many Xerox machines also offer printing, scanning, and faxing functions.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can photocopies be legally binding?
Yes, photocopies are often accepted as legal documents unless specified otherwise.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can Xerox machines print from a computer?
Many modern Xerox machines have printing capabilities from digital sources.
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Nov 24, 2023
Are photocopies always black and white?
Photocopies can be both black and white or color, depending on the machine.
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Nov 24, 2023
What does Xerox mean?
Xerox is a brand name for a photocopying machine, also used as a verb for photocopying.
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Nov 24, 2023
Is Xerox still a leading brand in photocopying?
Yes, Xerox remains a well-known brand in the field of document technology.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can I use the term Xerox for any photocopy?
While commonly done, using Xerox specifically refers to copies made with Xerox brand machines.
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Nov 24, 2023
Are photocopies environmentally friendly?
The environmental impact depends on paper usage and energy consumption of the copier.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can photocopies degrade over time?
Yes, photocopies can fade or degrade, especially if exposed to light or heat.
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Are Xerox machines expensive?
The cost varies based on model and features, with some being quite advanced and pricey.
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Are Xerox copies and photocopies of equal quality?
The quality can vary depending on the machine and settings used.
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Nov 24, 2023
How does a photocopier work?
A photocopier uses light and toner to transfer the image or text onto paper.
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Nov 24, 2023
Is photocopying faster than printing?
It depends on the machine; some photocopiers are faster than printers.
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Nov 24, 2023
Do Xerox copiers use ink or toner?
Xerox copiers typically use toner, a powder substance.
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Nov 24, 2023
Can photocopies be resized?
Yes, many photocopiers offer resizing or scaling functions.
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Nov 24, 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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