a true copy of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a true copy of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that a document is an exact replica of the original. Example: "Please provide a true copy of the contract for our records."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The advisory commission concluded that the National Archives had a responsibility to provide a true copy of the sound, if not enhance it.

The New York Times

Each must be cleaned to the same exacting standards if it is to remain a true copy of the French original.

The Economist

Doubtless, the factual content was improved more often than not, but a residual confusion remains when the specimen at hand may be either a true copy of an ancient document or a medieval scholar's version of the subject matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The light output is, as near as possible, a true copy of the electrical variations at the input, At the far end of the fiber, the receiver converts the light back into an electrical signal that is same as the original electrical signal.

Introduction to Fiber Optics

I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of a local law of The City of New York, passed by the Council on March 26 , 1981 and approved by the Mayor on April 16 , 1981

Huffington Post

Excellent surface detail reproduction and dimensional accuracy are necessary to produce a true copy of an anatomical structure, and these properties are commonly used to analyze the performance of impression materials [ 7].

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The individual accuracy of each PRT method can be assessed by comparing the inferred unrounded copy number with the integer copy number deduced from overall analysis of each sample (see below) to give a normalised measurement – for example, a PRT measurement of 6.3 for a sample with a true copy number of 6 would have a normalised value of 1.05.

BMC Genomics

For example, measurement error of only about 10% in analysis of a sample with a true copy number of 6 would result in an incorrect integer call.

BMC Genomics

One sample F-12688) wassignedned to the zero copy cluster by the mclust approach, but had a non-zero (0.268, confidence interval (CI) 0.182 to 0.353) CNV estimate, suggesting a true copy number of one.

Genome Medicine

An average of four adjacently located BAC clones showing a single copy-number loss provided 95% confidence of representing a true copy-number variation.

DNA Research

The proof required by Wells Fargo and approved by the court was "valid, accurate and true copies" of the front and back of the checks the borrowers sent in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a true copy of", ensure that the context emphasizes the importance of accuracy and authenticity in the replication.

Common error

Avoid using "a true copy of" when slight variations or adaptations are present. Reserve the phrase for instances where the copy is intended to be an exact duplicate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a true copy of" functions as a noun phrase modifier, specifying the quality or nature of the noun it precedes. It emphasizes the authenticity and accuracy of a copy, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a true copy of" denotes an exact and faithful reproduction. Ludwig's analysis indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in formal contexts, particularly in legal, scientific, and media domains. While alternatives like "an exact duplicate of" or "a faithful reproduction of" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance. Remember to use the phrase when accuracy is paramount and avoid it when the copy contains variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exact duplicate of

Emphasizes precision and accuracy in the replication.

a faithful reproduction of

Highlights the loyalty and accuracy to the original.

a precise replica of

Stresses the exactness and attention to detail in the copy.

a genuine representation of

Focuses on the authenticity and truthful portrayal of the original.

an accurate version of

Underscores the correctness and reliability of the copy.

a carbon copy of

Indicates an identical copy, often used metaphorically.

a mirror image of

Implies a reversed but identical copy.

a spitting image of

Suggests a very close resemblance, often in appearance.

a close parallel to

Indicates similarity rather than an exact copy.

a comparable version of

Highlights the comparability and similarity in function or form.

FAQs

What does "a true copy of" mean?

The phrase "a true copy of" signifies that something is an exact and faithful reproduction of an original document, item, or piece of information.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a true copy of"?

Use "a true copy of" when accuracy and exactness are paramount, such as in legal, official, or archival contexts where precise replication is essential.

What can I say instead of "a true copy of"?

You can use alternatives such as "an exact duplicate of", "a faithful reproduction of", or "an accurate version of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "a true copy of" and "a certified copy of"?

While both indicate accuracy, "a certified copy of" typically implies that the copy has been officially verified and authenticated by an authority, whereas "a true copy of" simply asserts that the copy is accurate without necessarily involving official endorsement.