ordinary copy

USAGE SUMMARY

"ordinary copy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is not unique, and is usually referred to in a generic, non-specific way. For example, "I ordered some ordinary copy to replace the original."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Put a few sheets of plain white paper on a table (you'll need a few sheets with ordinary copy paper because a single sheet will not be entirely opaque), and put the product on it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But the rules were sharply criticized by consumer organizations, which said they would force viewers to buy expensive equipment to make copies of digital programs and would give the studios greater control over what has been the ordinary copying of programs for home use.

The New York Times

However, we believe that the internet-based questionnaire was ideal for this young target group and would not expect an increased response using an ordinary hard copy format.

BMJ Open

Collectors in the US will be able to buy J Dilla's 2001 take on NWA's Fuck the Police, designed to look like a policeman's badge, but those in the UK will have to make do with ordinary-looking copies of his 2006 single Love.

The Guardian - Music

If generic drug makers wanted to knock off copies of ordinary insulin, the process for seeking approval of regular insulin is about as easy and clear as it gets due to good surrogates of safety and effectiveness.

Forbes

Dylan had dedicated himself to music played for ordinary people and tried to copy it.

The Guardian - Music

Note: you can buy 12 copies of the ordinary CD for the price of this.

Independent

Sales have also tripled for Lloyd Alexander's "Chronicles of Prydain" series about Taran, the assistant pig keeper, which in ordinary years sells about 10,000 copies.

The New York Times - Books

I mailed in a copy of my exceedingly ordinary signature.

Forbes

The ordinary paperback edition has sold 200,000 copies, and this Sunday will be its 22nd week on the New York Times trade paperback fiction best-seller list.

The New York Times - Books

The ordinary people of the Tea Party movement clutched pocket copies of the U.S. Constitution, and so did Ammon Bundy, and so did Khizr Khan.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing documents or files, use "ordinary copy" to denote a standard version without special features or modifications. For example, "Please provide an "ordinary copy" of your driver's license, not a certified one."

Common error

Avoid using "ordinary copy" when you actually mean the original document. "Ordinary copy" implies a duplicate, while the original holds unique significance. Be precise in your language to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary copy" functions as a noun phrase, where "ordinary" modifies "copy" to specify the type of copy being referenced. It denotes a standard, non-certified, or unenhanced duplicate of a document or item, as supported by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ordinary copy" is a noun phrase used to describe a standard, non-certified duplicate, distinct from originals or certified versions. Ludwig AI deems it grammatically correct and usable. Although not extremely common, its meaning is widely understood, appearing across contexts ranging from news reports to general instructions. Remember to use it when you're referring to a generic duplication, and avoid using it when the original is needed. While there are a number of alternative phrases such as "standard duplicate" or "common replica", the context determines the best fit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standard duplicate

Replaces "ordinary" with "standard" and "copy" with "duplicate", emphasizing the commonness and replication aspect.

typical imitation

Substitutes "ordinary" with "typical" and "copy" with "imitation", highlighting the common nature and derived origin.

common replica

Uses "common" instead of "ordinary" and "replica" for "copy", focusing on widespread availability and exact reproduction.

regular version

Replaces "ordinary copy" with "regular version", suggesting a non-special or default form.

plain duplicate

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of embellishment by using "plain" instead of "ordinary" and "duplicate" instead of "copy".

conventional imitation

Highlights adherence to established norms by using "conventional" and "imitation".

unremarkable reproduction

Stresses the lack of distinction by using "unremarkable" and "reproduction".

generic version

Implies a lack of branding or specificity by using "generic" instead of "ordinary".

run-of-the-mill duplicate

Replaces "ordinary" with the idiomatic "run-of-the-mill", emphasizing commonness.

basic form

Focuses on the fundamental nature by using "basic form".

FAQs

How can I use "ordinary copy" in a sentence?

You might say, "For the application, please submit an "ordinary copy" of your passport, not the original."

What is the difference between "ordinary copy" and "certified copy"?

An "ordinary copy" is a standard duplicate, while a certified copy is a duplicate officially verified as authentic.

What are some alternatives to "ordinary copy"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "standard duplicate", "common replica", or "regular version".

Is it always acceptable to submit an "ordinary copy" instead of an original?

No, some situations require original documents for verification purposes. Always check the specific requirements to determine if an "ordinary copy" is sufficient.