English Reference
noun

copying

n.
US /ˈkɑpiɪŋ/ UK /kˈɒpɪɪŋ/ copy·ing

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    the act of making a second version of a document or file.

    the process of duplicating physical or digital material. Often uncountable when referring to the general practice.

    Simple

    The office has a strict policy about the copying of private documents.

    In context

    Digital copying has made the distribution of information instantaneous, though it has also complicated the enforcement of traditional copyright laws.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    using someone else's ideas or work as your own.

    the act of imitating or mimicking the creative output or behavior of another, often with negative connotations regarding originality.

    Simple

    The teacher warned the students that copying from the internet is not allowed.

    In context

    The artist was accused of copying her mentor's style so closely that her own creative voice was entirely lost.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated