a copy has been given

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a copy has been given" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a duplicate of a document or item has been provided to someone. Example: "For your records, a copy has been given to the finance department for their review."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The IVI, local safety monitor, and the manufacturer-held sealed copies of the randomization list, which was not opened until all data for analysis had been frozen and a hard copy had been given to the local monitor.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

She said copies had been given to the former department lawyers whose work it criticizes and the department was awaiting their comments before beginning additional reviews.

The New York Times

The stamps go on sale on Thursday after copies have been given to the coach, players and staff.

The Guardian

By Sunday afternoon, the junior doctors' letter, sent to Hunt on Saturday and a copy of which has been given to the Guardian, had been supported by 1,618 junior doctors, 193 consultants or GPs and 198 medical students, most members of the BMA.

The Guardian

Neither Mr. Lahem nor the woman's husband has been given a copy of the verdict despite repeated requests, which has delayed filing of the appeal.

The New York Times

On the stage now, discussing what she likes about the new handset, which she has been given an early copy of.

The Guardian

The dead woman's family has been given typed copies of the three handwritten notes by the police and has read the contents, the Guardian has been told.

The Guardian

But a copy has been discovered.

The Guardian

Struck by an idea, he typed in, letter by letter, the text of the Declaration of Independence, from a copy he had been given on the fourth of July.

TechCrunch

Wal-Mart has been giving away copies of the first chapter.

The New York Times

I thought he presented his case well, and he enclosed with it a copy of a letter he had been given by the CEO for doing an outstanding job.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a copy has been given", ensure the context clearly indicates who received the copy to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a copy has been given" without specifying to whom the copy was given. This can lead to confusion and require clarification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a copy has been given" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that an action (giving a copy) has been performed on an object (a copy). Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability in written English, primarily to denote the provision of a document or item.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a copy has been given" is a grammatically sound passive voice phrase used to indicate that a duplicate of something has been provided. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, noting its application in various writing contexts. While relatively rare, the phrase is suitable for neutral and professional communication, particularly in news, science, and business settings. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the recipient of the copy. Alternatives like "a duplicate was provided" can be considered for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a duplicate was provided

Focuses on the act of providing a duplicate rather than explicitly stating who received it.

a version was supplied

Emphasizes that a particular version, not necessarily an exact copy, was provided.

a transcript was furnished

Specifically refers to providing a written record or transcript.

the document was handed over

Highlights the act of transferring the document, often implying a formal process.

a record was shared

Suggests a more collaborative or transparent act of providing information.

information was disseminated

Implies a wider distribution of information, not necessarily a one-to-one provision.

the material was released

Suggests that the material was made available to the public or a specific group.

a handout was distributed

Specifically refers to providing a physical copy, often in an educational or presentational context.

the file was transmitted

Implies electronic delivery of the file.

it was duplicated and distributed

Action is divided into duplication and distribution

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a copy has been given" to sound more active?

You can use active voice constructions like "we provided a copy", "they furnished a duplicate", or "I handed over the document" to make the sentence more direct.

Is it always necessary to specify who received the copy when using "a copy has been given"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the recipient clarifies the context and prevents ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "a duplicate was provided" if the recipient is irrelevant.

Which is more formal, "a copy has been given" or "a copy was provided"?

"A copy has been given" and "a copy was provided" are similarly formal. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. Both are suitable for professional and academic writing.

What's the difference between "a copy has been given" and "a copy was given"?

"A copy has been given" implies a more recent or ongoing action, while "a copy was given" refers to a completed action in the past. The choice depends on the time frame you want to convey.