The only copy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "The only copy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a singular version of a document, item, or piece of work that is unique or not duplicated. Example: "I have the only copy of the manuscript, so please handle it with care."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The only copy, written by a close adviser, is expected to fetch €120,000 (£100,000) at the auction house Drouot.

The Guardian

The only copy the committee has of the letter is from Mr. Claywell and it is an unsigned photocopy, Mr. O'Neill said.

The New York Times

The only copy they had was in Special Collections, a library within the library, full of rare books that could never be checked out.

Johns Hopkins University

The only copy of the rules is on the society's MySpace page.

Wikipedia

The only copy in the United States, it shows a series of scenes of Christ's life, accompanied by Old Testament text and portraits of the prophets.

Los Angeles Times

The only copy of the hAT transposon Drifter adjoins the truncated effector gene SIX1-H[ 45].

BMC Genomics

The sources are unnamed and the original report is proving difficult to track down; the only copy of it seems to be in CrackBerry's possession (copied below).

TechCrunch

It is the only copy in the United States and the only copy in private hands.

The New York Times

"No, this is the only copy," White replied.

The New York Times - Books

"This is the only copy in the world," the spokesman said.

The Guardian - Film

It's the only copy, after all". Once handed over, her novels are printed as written, unedited.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to something unique and irreplaceable, emphasize the importance of handling "the only copy" with utmost care to prevent damage or loss.

Common error

Avoid using "the only copy" when other copies exist. If multiple versions are available, use phrases like "a rare copy" or "one of the few remaining copies" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only copy" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a determiner modifying another noun. It highlights the singularity and uniqueness of a specific item. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only copy" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the uniqueness and exclusivity of an item. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. While versatile, remember to avoid redundancy and consider context-specific alternatives like ""the sole version"" or ""the unique exemplar"" to enhance clarity and impact. Using the phrase accurately helps convey the irreplaceable nature of the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The sole version

Replaces "only" with "sole" emphasizing exclusivity. It's highly similar and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.

The single existing version

Clarifies that only one version exists. Adds a layer of explicitness suitable for technical or legal contexts.

The unique exemplar

Substitutes "copy" with "exemplar," implying a model or standard. It's suitable when referring to something that serves as a prime example.

The one and only instance

Adds emphasis by using "one and only" instead of "only". Best used when highlighting the specialness of something.

The exclusive reproduction

Replaces "copy" with "reproduction," which is useful when the item is a result of duplication. "Exclusive" stresses limited availability.

The solitary duplicate

Uses "solitary duplicate" which can sound more poetic or dramatic, emphasizing the isolation and lack of other copies.

The last remaining print

Implies that all other copies are lost or destroyed. Evokes a sense of rarity and preciousness.

The original master

This implies that the item is the first or source from which all other copies are made. Good to use when talking about artistic works.

The definitive edition

Suggests that the item is the most authoritative or complete version. Best in reference to books or historical documents.

The only one of its kind

Shifts focus to the item's uniqueness rather than its status as a copy. Best when emphasizing rarity and individuality.

FAQs

How can I use "the only copy" in a sentence?

You can use "the only copy" to emphasize the uniqueness of an item. For example, "This manuscript is "the only copy" in existence, making it invaluable."

What's a good alternative to "the only copy"?

Alternatives include "the sole version", "the unique exemplar", or "the one and only instance", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "the only unique copy"?

Yes, saying "the only unique copy" is generally redundant since "unique" already implies that it's the only one of its kind. "The only copy" is sufficient.

When should I use "the original" instead of "the only copy"?

Use "the original" when referring to the source from which all copies are derived. Use ""the only copy"" when highlighting the fact that no other copies exist, regardless of whether it's the original.