Word
mccoy
Phoneticsmc·coy
/məˈkɔɪ/
Definition
n. the real or original thing, rather than a cheap copy or imitation.
n. the authentic or genuine version of something; typically used in the fixed phrase 'the real McCoy'.
Examples
“This vintage watch is the real McCoy.”
“After trying several cheap knock-offs, he was thrilled to finally find a pair of boots that were the real McCoy.”
“While many modern reproductions capture the aesthetic of the era, collectors are only interested in instruments that are the real McCoy, complete with original hardware and finish.”
Examples
simple
“This vintage watch is the real McCoy.”
contextual
“After trying several cheap knock-offs, he was thrilled to finally find a pair of boots that were the real McCoy.”
complex
“While many modern reproductions capture the aesthetic of the era, collectors are only interested in instruments that are the real McCoy, complete with original hardware and finish.”
Usage
Almost always used as part of the noun phrase 'the real McCoy'.
Teaching tip
This is a common idiom for B2+ learners to recognize, though they should be careful not to use 'McCoy' on its own to mean 'real'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
real McCoy — The genuine thing, neither a substitute nor an imitation.