Softcover Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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softcover
[ˈsɒftˌkʌvə ]
Definitions
book binding
A book with a flexible card or paper cover.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| softcover |
Softcover is a general term for books with a flexible, non-rigid cover. This term is neutral and can be used in a variety of situations where the book's cover material is not hard and rigid.
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| paperback |
Paperback specifically refers to books that have a paper cover, usually with glue binding. It is a term often used in the context of mass-market books, novels, and other easily accessible reading materials.
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| flexibound |
Flexibound typically refers to books that have a flexible cover which is more durable than standard paperback but not as rigid as hardcover. It's often used for high-quality editions of books meant to be more portable.
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Examples of usage
- The softcover edition of the novel was more affordable than the hardcover version.
- She preferred the softcover books because they were easier to carry around.
book publishing
The process of binding a book with a flexible card or paper cover.
Synonyms
flexibound binding, paperback binding.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| softcover |
It is the same as 'softcover' mentioned earlier; this term can be used interchangeably with 'paperback' in casual conversation.
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| paperback binding |
This term is used similarly to 'softcover' but more often emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and mass-market nature of the book. It’s frequently used by readers, booksellers, and in retail contexts.
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| flexibound binding |
This term is more specialized and is often used by publishers and bookstores. It generally refers to a type of binding that combines features of both hardcover and softcover bindings, offering some rigidity but also flexibility.
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Examples of usage
- The softcover of the book was released three months after the hardcover version.
- The softcover printing of the textbook was delayed due to production issues.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Publishing Industry
- Softcover books are generally cheaper to produce than hardcover ones, making them more affordable for readers.
- They often have a wider distribution, especially for popular genres like fiction and textbooks.
Cultural Impact
- Many bestselling novels and series are released in softcover to reach a broader audience.
- Softcover editions are often preferred for casual reading as they're lighter and easier to carry around.
Materials and Design
- Typically made with thick paper that allows for colorful designs and images on the cover.
- Modern techniques allow softcover books to be more durable than in the past, resisting wear and tear.
ART & Literature
- Many literary classics are available in softcover, making them accessible to a wider audience over time.
- Softcover books often host book covers with artistic designs that attract attention and reflect the book's theme.
Origin of 'softcover'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the early 20th century, distinguishing between books with stiff covers and those that were more flexible.
- It's a combination of 'soft', meaning flexible, and 'cover', referring to the outer layer of a book.
The term 'softcover' originated in the mid-20th century as a way to describe books bound with flexible card or paper covers. Softcover books have become popular due to their affordability and portability. The softcover binding process allows for quicker and more cost-effective production compared to hardcover books. Softcover editions are commonly used for novels, textbooks, and non-fiction books.
See also: soft, softball, softbox, soften, softenable, softener, softening, softie, softly, softness, software, softy.