Copy: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to making a similar version of something, often a document or a piece of media.

• Can you make a copy of this report for me?
• He copied the file to his USB drive.

Used in biological or artistic contexts, often referring to creating something again or the process of making offspring.

• These plants reproduce rapidly in this environment.
• The artist can reproduce the exact color shades.

Used when someone is trying to match or follow someone's actions, style, or behavior. Often involves mimicking.

• Children often imitate their parents.
• She can imitate different accents perfectly.

Best for official or formal contexts when an exact reproduction is required. Often used in technology or documentation.

• Please duplicate this document and file the copies.
• The software can easily duplicate the data.

Applicable in scientific, technical, or artistic settings where precise and accurate reproduction is required.

• The experiment was replicated to verify the results.
• They tried to replicate the original painting techniques.

Use when referring to reproducing a document, text, or any other kind of written material. It can also mean creating a similar version of an object or work.

• I need a copy of the report by tomorrow.
• Can you make a copy of this key?

Often used in formal or technical contexts to indicate an exact reproduction or replication. It may also imply the need for preventing redundancy.

• We need to duplicate these files for backup purposes.
• Please avoid creating duplicate entries in the database.

Used when talking about an exact replica or reproduction, often of an object with historical or cultural significance. Usually, it implies a high-quality and respectful reproduction.

• The museum displayed a replica of the ancient artifact.
• He built a replica of the famous car from the movie.

Applied when referring to something that is made to look like something else, often with a sense of being inferior or of lower quality. This word can carry a negative connotation.

• This handbag is just an imitation of the designer brand.
• He bought an imitation watch that broke after a week.