Unauthorized copy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Unauthorized copy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a copy of a document, software, or other material has been made without permission or legal rights. Example: "This document is marked as an unauthorized copy and should not be distributed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

One of the slides acknowledges that TomorrowNow used "nonproduction copy" — i.e. unauthorized copy — of Oracle's software.

The New York Times

The letters were published in 1763 from an unauthorized copy and were acclaimed throughout Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Reproduction of an unauthorized copy from the Copyright Office violates 17 U.S.C. § 106(106

Harvard University

When Moran made the unauthorized copy, he put the unauthorized copy in a package made to resemble as closely as possible the package containing the original copyrighted motion picture Moran had purchased from an authorized distributor.

Harvard University

It was perfectly consistent with Moran's view of the law to make the unauthorized copy look as nearly as possible like the authorized version.

Harvard University

For example, Moran purchased multiple authorized copies of the same movie, but he made only one unauthorized copy for each authorized version purchased.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Most of the apps are unauthorized copies.

The New York Times

Its technology prevents unauthorized copying.

The New York Times - Tech

Now invitations to premieres include a warning about unauthorized copying.

The New York Times

That, along with unauthorized copying, has decimated industry revenues.

The New York Times

InterTrust programs prevent the unauthorized copying of digital content.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to digital content, specify the type of "unauthorized copy" (e.g. "unauthorized copy" of software, movie, music) to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "unauthorized copy" when you mean an uncertified or unverified document. "Unauthorized" implies a lack of permission or legal right, while "uncertified" or "unverified" relates to authenticity or validation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unauthorized copy" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "unauthorized" modifies the noun "copy". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is used to describe a reproduction that lacks official permission.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unauthorized copy" refers to a reproduction made without permission or legal right. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in "News & Media" and academic settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the type of content being copied and avoid confusing it with terms like 'uncertified' or 'unverified'. Alternatives include "illicit duplicate", "unlicensed version", and "pirated version".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unapproved replica

This alternative substitutes "copy" with "replica", emphasizing the reproduction aspect without authorization.

Illicit duplicate

This alternative uses "illicit" to highlight the illegal nature of the copying, and "duplicate" to mean a copy.

Unlicensed version

This term emphasizes the lack of a proper license for the copy, particularly applicable to software or digital content.

Bootleg edition

This term refers to something produced unofficially or illegally, often in the context of recordings or merchandise.

Pirated version

This emphasizes the illegal reproduction and distribution, common in copyright infringement contexts.

Counterfeit copy

This term highlights the fraudulent nature of the copy, suggesting it's made to deceive.

Unofficial imitation

This phrase emphasizes that the copy is not sanctioned or endorsed by the original source.

Illegal reproduction

This phrase uses "reproduction" as a synonym to copy and stresses that is performed against the law.

Prohibited duplication

This alternative highlights the prohibition aspect of the act of copying.

Infringing copy

This term directly refers to the violation of copyright or other intellectual property rights.

FAQs

What are the legal implications of possessing an "unauthorized copy"?

Possessing an "unauthorized copy" can lead to copyright infringement claims, potentially resulting in fines and legal action from the copyright holder. The specifics depend on the type of content and the jurisdiction.

How does an "unauthorized copy" differ from a 'fair use' copy?

An "unauthorized copy" generally violates copyright law, while a 'fair use' copy is a reproduction of copyrighted material that is permitted under certain circumstances, such as for criticism, commentary, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. Each circumstance must be evaluated case-by-case.

What can I say instead of "unauthorized copy"?

Alternatives include "illicit duplicate", "unlicensed version", or "pirated version", depending on the context.

Is making a backup copy of software I legally purchased considered an "unauthorized copy"?

Generally, making a backup copy of legally purchased software is permitted, but it depends on the licensing agreement. Some agreements explicitly prohibit making copies, even for backup purposes, which would then make it an "unauthorized copy".