Bootleg: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when referring to illegal copies of entertainment media like movies, music, or software. Often suggests lower quality or amateurish production.

• He got a bootleg copy of the latest album
• Watching a bootleg movie is illegal

Commonly used for unauthorized and illegal copies of digital products like software, movies, and music. Often implies a large-scale operation or distribution network.

• It's illegal to download pirated software
• They were selling pirated DVDs on the street

Used when referring to fake or forged items that are usually high-value, such as money, luxury goods, or documents. Implies illegal and deceptive intent.

• He was caught with counterfeit money
• The market was full of counterfeit designer handbags

Generally used to describe any action, copy, or use that has not been officially allowed or approved by a person or authority. Less specific to the medium but still implies illegality.

• He made unauthorized changes to the document
• Accessing the system without permission is unauthorized use

Same as above; used primarily in American English.

• She bought a bootleg DVD from a street vendor
• The bootleg concert recordings were popular among fans

Refers to the act of illegally copying and distributing media, specifically in the context of downloading or sharing files over the internet. Often has a negative connotation.

• He was arrested for pirating software worth thousands of dollars
• Websites that pirate movies are usually shut down quickly by authorities

Refers specifically to the act of making unauthorized duplicates of digital or physical media.

• He copied the software illegally and distributed it among his friends
• Copying music files illegally can result in serious penalties

Focuses on the act of distributing unauthorized copies or items, after they have been produced.

• The group was caught distributing movies illegally through an online platform
• Distributing illegally gained content can lead to legal consequences