I copy that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I copy that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in communication to acknowledge that a message has been received and understood, often in contexts like radio communication or informal conversations. Example: "When you said the meeting was moved to 3 PM, I copy that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I copy that drawing from a book.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I copied that thought onto a Post-it note and stuck it on my wall.

The New York Times - Magazine

I really should just copy that text onto my clipboard and paste it in with every subsequent needless penalty.

The Guardian - Sport

Then people started saying 'Be serious, did you copy that song?' I was like, 'I never heard that artist.' But that was weird for me.

Vice

Once, she saw a sign that had been posted by a postdoctoral student: "DO NOT use my NaOH!! STOP!!!!" "I copied that.

The New York Times - Science

"Copy that?" "Copy that, Ed".

The New Yorker

I accidentally copied that coworker on an email.

Vice

I've copied that very same thing on a couple of things in fact.

Vice

I just went into Word and created a file that read, to the naked eye, as follows: the Word Then I copy-pasted that text into a website that revealed the hidden code my document was carrying.

The New Yorker

"I copy things from photographs, that kind of stuff.

The New York Times - Arts

Not that I copy them – I just like having fun representing myself as a guy.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I copy that" in contexts where clear and concise communication is essential, such as in technical discussions or situations requiring immediate confirmation. It's particularly effective in settings emulating radio communication or where a degree of formality is desired without being overly verbose.

Common error

Avoid using "I copy that" in everyday conversations where simpler phrases like "Got it" or "Understood" are more appropriate. Overuse in casual settings can make your speech sound unnatural or overly formal, potentially creating a barrier in communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I copy that" functions primarily as a declarative utterance. Ludwig AI confirms that it serves to explicitly acknowledge receipt and comprehension of a message, mirroring its use in technical or semi-formal communication scenarios.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I copy that" serves as a succinct acknowledgement of message receipt and understanding, often employed in professional or technical settings. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase, though its frequency is uncommon compared to alternatives like "Understood" or "Got it". Primarily found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts, it is best used when clear, concise confirmation is crucial. When communicating in casual settings is better to replace it with other terms to avoid a too much formal tone. It's worth noting that while the phrase is generally correct, being mindful of the context ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Got it

An informal and succinct confirmation of understanding.

I understand

Emphasizes comprehension rather than just receipt of information.

Understood

A simple, direct acknowledgement, lacking the specific jargon feel of "I copy that".

Acknowledged

Similar to 'message received', highlighting that the communication has been noted.

Message received

More formal and emphasizes the receipt of the message, suitable for professional settings.

That's clear

Focuses on the clarity of the message rather than simple acknowledgement.

Roger that

A slightly more technical variant, derived from radio communication protocols.

Duly noted

Indicates that the information has been registered and will be taken into account.

Affirmative

A formal, almost archaic, confirmation, common in aviation or military contexts.

Copy

A shortened, even more technical version, common in rapid communication.

FAQs

What does the phrase "I copy that" mean?

The phrase "I copy that" means that you have received and understood a message. It's often used in radio communications, but can also be used in other contexts to indicate clear comprehension.

When is it appropriate to use "I copy that"?

It's appropriate to use "I copy that" in situations where you want to clearly and concisely confirm that you have received and understood a message, particularly in somewhat formal or technical contexts. For more informal contexts alternatives like "got it" or "understood" may be more suitable.

Is "I copy that" the same as "Roger that"?

While similar, "I copy that" specifically implies understanding the message, while "roger that" primarily acknowledges receipt. Both are derived from radio communication protocols.

What are some alternatives to "I copy that" in professional settings?

In professional settings, you can use alternatives such as "message received", "acknowledged", or "I understand" to convey the same meaning with a slightly more formal tone.