ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mccoy

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //məˈkɔɪ// mc·coy

n. the real thing, not a copy or a fake. You use this when you want to say something is genuine and high quality.

n. the authentic or genuine version of something, as opposed to a substitute or imitation. Almost exclusively used within the fixed idiomatic phrase 'the real McCoy'.


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

Typically functions as a singular noun phrase preceded by the definite article 'the'.

Pitfall

the real Macoythe real McCoyThe name is a proper noun and requires the specific 'McCoy' spelling with a capital M and C.

Idioms1 entry

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