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noun Uncommon

copying

KO-pee-ihng

Copying (noun) means the act or process of making a copy of something. Example: “Unauthorised copying of the software is against the licence.”

noun
1
The act or process of making a copy of something.
"Unauthorised copying of the software is against the licence."

How to use copying

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe act of duplicating something.

Common pairings
illegal copying copying software copying and pasting

Word forms

copyings plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Unauthorised _____ of the software is against the licence.

Etymology

From copy plus -ing.

duplicating reproducing imitating replicating

Related words

Rhymes for copying

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Frequently asked questions

What does “copying” mean?

The word “copying” means the act or process of making a copy of something. In plain terms, the act of duplicating something.

How do you pronounce “copying”?

“Copying” is pronounced KO-pee-ihng (/ˈkɑpiɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “copying” in a sentence?

Here is “copying” used in a sentence: “Unauthorised copying of the software is against the licence.”

What part of speech is “copying”?

“Copying” is a noun.

Is “copying” a common word?

“Copying” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the difference between copying and plagiarism?

Copying is the neutral act or process of making a copy of something, which can be legitimate, such as copying a file for backup. Plagiarism specifically refers to copying someone else's work or ideas and presenting them as your own without credit, making it a dishonest and often unethical or illegal form of copying.

Is copying and pasting text the same as the general meaning of copying?

Copy and paste is a specific digital process where copying refers to duplicating text or data in a computer's memory before pasting it elsewhere. It uses the same core meaning of copying as making a duplicate, applied specifically to digital content.

What does copying mean when applied to behavior, like a child copying an adult?

When applied to behavior, copying means imitating or reproducing someone else's actions, mannerisms, or speech, such as a child copying a parent's habits. This extends the core sense of making a copy from objects to observed behavior.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial