What is copy? Pronunciation and usage in English

copy means . Learn how to pronounce and use copy through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of copy

copynoun/verb

/ˈkɒpi/
Definition & pronunciation of copy

The word "copy" in English has a few different pronunciations depending on where you are and what dialect you're using. Here's a breakdown:

1. Most Common (General American):

  • Pronunciation: /ˈkɑ.pi/ (rhymes with "happy")
  • Breakdown:
    • ˈkɑ: The "c" is pronounced like a "k." The "a" has a short "a" sound, like in "cat."
    • pi: Pronounced like the letter "p."

2. British English:

  • Pronunciation: /kəˈpi/ (rhymes with "peppy")
  • Breakdown:
    • kə: A short "uh" sound is inserted.
    • ˈpi: The "p" is stressed, and the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit."

Here's a helpful way to hear the pronunciation:

  • Google: Search for "how to pronounce copy" on Google and click the speaker icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/copy/ – This website allows you to hear pronunciations from native speakers in various accents.

To summarize:

Dialect Pronunciation Rhyme
General American /ˈkɑ.pi/ happy
British English /kəˈpi/ peppy

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Usage and examples with the word copy in English

Let's break down how to use the word "copy" in English. It’s a surprisingly versatile word with many different meanings and uses! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Verb (Action - to Duplicate)

  • To make a duplicate: This is the most common meaning.
    • “I need to copy this document before it gets damaged.”
    • “Can you copy my notes for me?”
    • “She copied the recipe from the internet.”
  • To imitate or mimic: This means to do something exactly as someone else does.
    • “He copied his teacher’s handwriting.”
    • “The band copied the style of their favorite rock group.”
    • “Don’t copy other people’s ideas – be original!”
  • To transcribe (especially written text):
    • “I’m going to copy this quote from the book.”
  • To duplicate data (computer/digital):
    • “Copy the file to the USB drive.”
    • “Copy and paste this text into the document.”

2. As a Noun (Thing - a Duplicated Item)

  • A duplicate: The object that was copied.
    • “I have three copies of the book.”
    • “He made a copy of the painting.”
  • A musical recording: A record of a song or piece of music.
    • “I bought a copy of their new album.”
  • A film or video recording: A duplicate recording of a movie or video.
    • “I watched a copy of the movie online.”
  • A carbon copy (of a document): A duplicate copy sent through the mail. (Less common now with email)
    • “Please send me a copy of your application.”
  • A “copycat” (person): Someone who imitates others.
    • “He’s such a copycat, always trying to be like his brother.”
  • A version of something:
    • “I’m working on a copy of the report.” (meaning a version or draft)

3. Phrases and Idioms

  • "Copy that": (Military/Radio) – meaning “understood” or “acknowledged.”
  • “Let me copy that”: (Radio/Speaking) - meaning "Could you repeat that?"
  • "Have a copy": Meaning “Do you have a duplicate?”
  • "Copy and paste": A computer shortcut for copying and pasting text or items.

4. Figurative Usage

  • "To copy someone's style": To imitate their mannerisms, appearance, or voice.

Tips for Choosing the Right "Copy"

  • Context is key! The meaning of "copy" depends heavily on how it's used in the sentence.
  • Consider the action: Are you making a duplicate, or are you imitating something?
  • Think about the noun: Are you referring to the thing itself (a duplicate, a recording), or an adjective (a copycat)?

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you an even more tailored response, could you tell me:

  • In what kind of context are you using the word "copy"? (e.g., writing an email, having a conversation, doing a homework assignment)
  • Are there any specific sentences you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word copy

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