a printout

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a printout" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical copy of a document or data that has been printed from a computer or other device. Example: "Please make sure to bring a printout of the report to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Carroll handed a printout to Meyer.

The New York Times - Magazine

A printout of a Web page?

The New Yorker

The analysts have a printout showing employment.

The Guardian

And she also brings a printout as a backup.

The New York Times

A printout on old-style, tabbed computer paper.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then the student can get a printout in Nemeth Braille.

The New York Times - Tech

He pointed boastfully at a printout of the station's latest stats.

The New York Times

Fortunately, the store had given her a printout the night before.

The New York Times

Each man was holding a printout of a woman's eyes over his own.

The New Yorker

They give me a printout of the mailing list for their running magazine".

The New York Times

The real Joan is sharing with a visitor a printout of her crammed daily schedule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarity is crucial, specify the type of "printout" (e.g., "a printout of the contract", "a printout of the data analysis") to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a printout" when referring to digital information displayed on a screen. "Printout" specifically means a physical, printed copy. Instead, use "output" or "display" for on-screen information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a printout" primarily functions as a noun phrase, serving as the direct object or subject in sentences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a physical copy of digital information. The examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to refer to tangible documents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

27%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a printout" is a common noun phrase referring to a physical copy of digital information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general reference. While its register is primarily neutral, ensuring clarity by specifying the type of printout and avoiding confusion with purely digital output are best practices. Alternative phrases like "a hard copy" or "a printed document" can offer a more formal tone when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hard copy

Replaces "printout" with a more general term for a physical copy.

a printed copy

Uses a more descriptive adjective to specify the type of copy.

a paper copy

Specifies the material of the copy, emphasizing its physical nature.

a printed version

Similar meaning, emphasizing that the source is a version that has been printed.

a physical document

Generalizes the "printout" to any physical document.

a hard copy document

Combines "hard copy" with "document" for clarity.

a transcript

Refers to a specific type of printed document, usually of spoken words.

a written record

Emphasizes the informational aspect of the printed document.

a duplicate

Focuses on the copy aspect, indicating that it's a reproduction.

a reproduction

Highlights that the document is a copy of an original.

FAQs

How can I use "a printout" in a sentence?

You can use "a printout" to refer to a physical copy of a digital document. For example: "The analyst provided "a printout" of the sales figures."

What's a more formal alternative to "a printout"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "a hard copy" or "a printed document" instead of "a printout", especially in professional or academic contexts.

Is there a difference between "a printout" and "a handout"?

Yes, "a printout" refers to a document that you've printed yourself, while "a handout" is a document that's been prepared and distributed to a group of people.

When is it necessary to bring "a printout" instead of just showing something on my phone?

In situations where a physical record is required, or when access to electronic devices is limited or restricted, bringing "a printout" is essential. This is common in formal meetings, legal proceedings, or when traveling.