Photocopy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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photocopy
[ˈfəʊtəˌkɒpi ]
Definitions
office equipment
A photocopy is a reproduction of a document or image made using a photocopier.
Synonyms
copy, duplication, reproduction.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| photocopy |
Used when referring to making a copy of a document using a photocopier machine. Typically used in office or academic settings.
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| copy |
A general term that can refer to the replication of various types of content, such as documents, books, files, etc. It's very versatile and suitable for everyday use.
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| reproduction |
Typically used to describe the creation of copies of artistic works, photographs, or any original material, often within an intellectual or creative context.
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| duplication |
Used in more formal or technical settings to describe the process of making an exact replica of something, often used in scientific or business contexts. Can imply redundancy if used negatively.
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Examples of usage
- I need to make a photocopy of this report.
- She made several photocopies of the presentation for the meeting.
action
To photocopy means to make a reproduction of a document or image using a photocopier.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| photocopy |
Useful when you need an exact physical copy of a document using a photocopier machine, typically for office or administrative purposes.
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| copy |
A general term that can be used in various contexts to mean a replication of something, whether digital or physical. It can refer to documents, files, books, etc.
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| reproduce |
Usually used in more formal or technical contexts implying the creation of copies through various means, including printing, digitally, or manually. It suggests a more complex process and sometimes a higher quality of replication.
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| duplicate |
Often used formally or technically to refer to an exact copy of something. It can be used for physical items, digital files, or when emphasizing the need for exactness.
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Examples of usage
- I will photocopy these documents for you.
- He photocopies important papers for the office regularly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- The first photocopier was invented by Chester Carlson in 1938, and it was called electrophotography.
- Modern photocopying machines use a process called xerography, which relies on static electricity to transfer images.
Art and Design
- Photocopying is often used in the art world, allowing artists to create unique pieces by manipulating copied images.
- In the 1960s, photocopy art emerged, with artists utilizing the technology to produce avant-garde works.
Education
- Many schools rely on photocopying for distributing materials, making it a staple in classrooms.
- Photocopies can make studying easier, as students can obtain duplicates of educational resources.
Legal and Business
- In many professional settings, photocopies are used for important documents, such as contracts and agreements.
- Legally, having a photocopy can serve as a backup for original documents in case of loss or damage.
Origin of 'photocopy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'photocopy' comes from the Greek word 'photo,' meaning light, and 'copy,' which means to reproduce.
- First revealed in the early 20th century, the word has evolved as technology advanced.
The term 'photocopy' originates from the combination of 'photo-' (related to light) and 'copy' (a reproduction). The invention of the photocopier is attributed to Chester Carlson, who developed the process in the 1930s and later commercialized it. Photocopying revolutionized document reproduction and became a standard practice in offices worldwide.
See also: photo, photoflash, photograph, photographer, photographic, photography, photos.