English Profile

copy · verb

/ˈkɑp.i/Full view

copy (PRODUCE)

A2 T to produce something that is similar or exactly the same as something else

Dictionary examples:

They've copied the basic design from the Japanese model and added a few of their own refinements.

Copy the file onto disk.

Learner example:

I will copy the CD on[to] my computer. (Key English Test; A2; Chinese)

copy (CHEAT)

B2 I or T to cheat by looking at and using someone else's work

Dictionary example:

He was always copying from/off other children, but never got caught.

Learner example:

I'm certain she thought we had copied in the test. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

copy (BEHAVE)

B2 T to behave like someone else

Dictionary example:

He tends to copy his brother in the way he dresses.

Learner example:

He has to eat salads now, in [the] hope [that] the kids'll copy his attitudes and eat fresh and healthy food instead of sweets and unhealthy st[u]ff. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

copy · noun C

/ˈkɑp.i/

copy (MADE THE SAME)

B1 something that has been made to be exactly like something else

Dictionary examples:

This painting is only a copy - the original hangs in the Louvre.

I always keep a copy of any official or important letters that I send off.

Could you make a copy of this for tomorrow's meeting, please?

Learner example:

For covering the work I missed, I will ask May on Thursday if I can borrow her exercise book and make a copy. (Preliminary English Test; B1; German)

copy (SINGLE ONE)

B2 a single book, newspaper, etc. of which many have been produced

Dictionary example:

Over a million copies of the book have been sold.

Learner example:

The single with her new song sold more than 15 million copies, now she was a powerful star. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)