a duplicate

USAGE SUMMARY

"a duplicate" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is an exact copy or reproduction of something else. For example, "This document is a duplicate of the original."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A duplicate store".

The New York Times

That's a duplicate.

The New York Times

A duplicate was made for him.

The Guardian - Sport

But overtricks are important in a duplicate.

The New York Times

But occasionally she buys a duplicate book by accident.

The New York Times - Tech

Every work is a duplicate of a previous piece.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's embarrassingly easy to get a duplicate license here.

The New York Times

It is a duplicate club and details are at bridgecenteroflongisland.com.

The New York Times

The result, she said, was a duplicate payment.

The New York Times

It was a duplicate payment, and Ms. Ruell corrected it.

The New York Times

And that could lead to a duplicate record.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a duplicate", ensure the context clearly indicates what the original item is and why the duplication is relevant. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid phrases like "duplicate copy" because "duplicate" already implies a copy. Saying "a duplicate" is concise and sufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a duplicate" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to something that is an exact copy or reproduction of another item. As Ludwig AI states, this usage is grammatically correct and well-supported by examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a duplicate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that functions as a noun phrase, indicating an exact copy or reproduction of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is well-supported across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While the term is versatile, it's important to avoid redundant phrases like "duplicate copy" and ensure clarity by specifying the original item. Remember that context helps determine the most appropriate alternative, such as "a replica" or "an identical copy", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an identical copy

Emphasizes the exact replication of the original item.

a facsimile

Implies an exact copy, often used in technical or legal contexts.

a carbon copy

Highlights the creation of a direct and unaltered copy, particularly in documents.

a replica

Suggests a close imitation, often used for artistic or historical items.

a spitting image

Refers to a very close resemblance, typically used for people.

a clone

Suggests a genetically identical copy, commonly used in scientific contexts.

a reproduction

Focuses on the act of recreating something, implying similarity but not necessarily exactness.

a twin

Implies something very similar or identical, often used metaphorically.

a counterpart

Indicates a similar item but not necessarily an exact copy, often used for roles or positions.

a parallel

Suggests a similarity in function or structure, but not necessarily an exact copy.

FAQs

How do you use "a duplicate" in a sentence?

You can use "a duplicate" to indicate that something is an exact copy or reproduction of something else. For example, "This is "a duplicate" key for the back door" or "The system flagged "a duplicate" payment."

What are some alternatives to "a duplicate"?

Some alternatives include "an identical copy", "a replica", or "a reproduction", depending on the context and the level of exactness you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "duplicate copy"?

Yes, saying "duplicate copy" is generally considered redundant because the word "duplicate" already implies that it is a copy. Just using ""a duplicate"" is sufficient.

What's the difference between "a duplicate" and "a replica"?

While both refer to copies, ""a duplicate"" often implies an exact copy for functional purposes (like a key or document), while ""a replica"" suggests a copy, often of an artistic or historical item, that may not be fully functional but is visually similar.