# duplication

/ˌdjupɫəˈkeɪʃən/ (US) · /djˌuːplɪkˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/duplication
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the act of making an exact copy of something. It can also mean when the same work is done twice by mistake.

For teachers: the act or process of creating an identical copy of something; the state of being repeated or doubled. In biological contexts, refers specifically to the replication of genetic material or cellular structures.

## Examples

- The office has a system to prevent the duplication of files.
- The manager noticed a duplication of efforts because two different teams were working on the same report.
- Genetic duplication can lead to the evolution of new functions, as the extra copy of a gene is free to mutate without harming the organism's survival.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to specific instances of copying.

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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.