# copying

/ˈkɑpiɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈɒpɪɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/copying
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. duplicating documents

noun · CEFR A2

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

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

- The office has a strict policy about the copying of private documents.
- Digital copying has made the distribution of information instantaneous, though it has also complicated the enforcement of traditional copyright laws.

### 2. imitating work

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- The teacher warned the students that copying from the internet is not allowed.
- The artist was accused of copying her mentor's style so closely that her own creative voice was entirely lost.

## Examples

- The teacher caught the student copying from his neighbor's test.
- Digital copying of copyrighted music without permission led to significant changes in how the industry operates.
- While some view the copying of classical techniques as a lack of original vision, others argue it is a necessary stage in the development of a master painter.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.