Counterfeiting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the illegal practice of making exact copies of something valuable or important, usually money or documents.

• The government has strict laws against counterfeiting currency.
• He was arrested for counterfeiting documents to gain entry into the country.

Refers to the unauthorized copying and distribution of software, music, movies, and other intellectual property. It has a broad scope but often emphasizes digital or media content.

• Piracy has become a huge problem for the film industry.
• He was fined heavily for software piracy.

Commonly used to describe a product that is a cheaper imitation of a well-known brand. Usually carries a negative connotation as it implies lower quality and potential dishonesty.

• She bought a knockoff handbag at the street market.
• The phone looked like a genuine iPhone, but it was actually a knockoff.

Typically used when referring to the illegal production and distribution of goods, particularly alcohol and media, like movies or music. Often has a historical context related to Prohibition-era alcohol smuggling.

• During Prohibition, many people sold bootleg whiskey.
• He was caught selling bootleg copies of the latest movie.