a facsimile of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a facsimile of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an exact copy or reproduction of something, often in the context of documents or artworks. Example: "The museum displayed a facsimile of the original manuscript for visitors to examine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Like a facsimile of a facsimile of music.

The New Yorker

That is a facsimile of May's argument.

The Guardian - Opinion

A facsimile of Bellini's manuscript of Norma.

The Guardian - Music

In many ways it is a facsimile of its prototype.

The New York Times

Would you consider publishing a facsimile of the cards themselves?

The New York Times

I am still a facsimile of my early childhood.

The New Yorker

"But it would certainly not be merely a facsimile of the present regime in civilian clothing".

The New York Times

It's a bit disconcerting to watch a facsimile of your industry being performed in a museum.

The New Yorker

Now the Packers are building a facsimile of what Capers, LeBeau and others created in Pittsburgh.

The New York Times - Sports

Included was a facsimile of a page that listed dollar amounts paid for individual slaves.

The New York Times - Books

A facsimile of that inaugural edition was given to attendees on Tuesday night.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a facsimile of" when you want to emphasize the creation of a nearly identical copy, particularly of documents, signatures, or historical artifacts, where accuracy is important.

Common error

Avoid using "a facsimile of" when you simply mean a rough imitation or representation. "Facsimile" implies a high degree of accuracy; use alternatives like "resemblance" or "likeness" for less precise copies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a facsimile of" functions as a noun phrase acting as a modifier. It specifies that something is a very close or exact copy of something else. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showing its consistent use in describing reproductions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a facsimile of" is a commonly used phrase that indicates something is a very close or exact copy. As Ludwig AI's analysis highlights, it's grammatically correct and most frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and scientific publications. When writing, it's best to use this phrase when you wish to highlight accuracy in reproduction and avoid using it for more general imitations. Consider alternatives like "a replica of" or "a copy of" if the context demands it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exact copy of

This phrase implies a precise and identical reproduction, emphasizing accuracy.

a replica of

Suggests a close imitation, often used for objects and structures, highlighting duplication.

a reproduction of

Refers to the act of creating a new version, often in the context of art or documents.

an imitation of

Indicates a less precise copy, potentially lacking some of the original's qualities.

a likeness of

Focuses on a resemblance in appearance or character, but not necessarily a complete duplication.

a semblance of

Suggests a superficial similarity or an outward appearance that may not be genuine.

a representation of

Implies a symbolic or abstract portrayal, rather than a direct copy.

a mock-up of

Describes a model or prototype used for demonstration or testing purposes.

a stand-in for

Denotes something or someone that takes the place of another, often temporarily.

a portrayal of

Indicates a depiction or representation, often in art or literature, emphasizing interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "a facsimile of" in a sentence?

Use "a facsimile of" when you want to describe something that is a very close copy of something else, often a document or historical artifact. For example: "The museum displayed "a facsimile of" the original Declaration of Independence."

What's the difference between "a facsimile of" and "a copy of"?

"A facsimile of" generally implies a higher degree of accuracy and detail than "a copy of". A facsimile is often intended to be as close to the original as possible.

When is it appropriate to use "a replica of" instead of "a facsimile of"?

While both indicate a copy, "a replica of" is often used for physical objects like statues or buildings, while "a facsimile of" is more commonly used for documents, signatures, or other items where precise duplication is key.

What can I say instead of "a facsimile of" to mean a rough approximation?

If you mean a less precise copy, consider alternatives like "a likeness of", "a semblance of", or "a representation of", which suggest a looser similarity without implying exactness.