paper copy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "paper copy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical document or to something that has been printed on paper, such as a report. For example, "I need a paper copy of the report to file in my records."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Under Ohio law, the paper copy is the voter's vote.

The New York Times - Magazine

You pay online, then print out your own paper copy.

The New York Times - Tech

Experian and Equifax allow you to order a paper copy online and pay with a card.

The Guardian - Money

He evacuated when Ike was nearing, but he forgot the paper copy of his insurance policy.

The New York Times - Tech

You are advised to print off and keep a paper copy of these terms.

The Guardian

With paper copy subscriptions, newspapers know what address has received a copy and not much else.

The New York Times - Tech

Print out a paper copy and start collecting information for the biographical sections.

The New York Times

Ten states, including New Jersey, prohibit electronic prescribing, and three states require a paper copy for each electronic prescription.

The New York Times

Rand McNally includes a paper copy of its "Road Atlas and Travel Guide" for the Luddite in the car.

The New York Times - Tech

"What you want is more Newswires copy in the paper and more paper copy on the Newswires".

The New York Times

The iPad Pro sat out the rest of the lawyer's remarks as the paper copy took centre stage.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying the need for a "paper copy", consider your audience. In formal settings, "hard copy" may sound more professional.

Common error

Avoid using "paper copy" when a digital version suffices. Ensure the recipient truly needs a physical document before providing one. State what it is (e.g. "Paper copy of the invoice").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paper copy" functions primarily as a noun phrase, specifying a physical version of a document or information. As supported by Ludwig, it denotes a tangible record, contrasting with digital formats.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "paper copy" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to a physical, printed version of a document or information. As Ludwig AI explains, the expression serves to distinguish a tangible record from a digital format. Usage is particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and general contexts. While "paper copy" is appropriate in many settings, more formal situations might benefit from the alternative "hard copy". Understanding the contexts and alternatives helps ensure effective and clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hard copy

Replaces "paper" with "hard", emphasizing the physical and permanent nature of the copy.

printed version

Focuses on the action of printing to create the copy.

physical document

Highlights the tangible format of the copy.

written record

Emphasizes the informational content being recorded on paper.

printout

A more informal term referring to a printed document.

duplicate on paper

Specifies that the copy is on paper, emphasizing the duplication aspect.

paper record

Focuses on the function of the copy as a record.

transcript on paper

Highlights that the copy is a transcription of something.

paper-based version

Emphasizes that the copy is based on paper technology.

document in print

Highlights the document and the fact that it's available in printed form.

FAQs

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

You can use "paper copy" to specify that you need a physical version of a document, like "Please provide a "paper copy" of the contract".

What's a good alternative to "paper copy"?

Alternatives include "hard copy", "printed version", or "physical document", depending on the context.

When is it necessary to request a "paper copy" instead of a digital one?

Request a "paper copy" when a physical signature is required, for archival purposes where digital storage is not sufficient, or when accessibility is a concern for those without digital devices.

Is "paper copy" formal or informal?

"Paper copy" is generally considered neutral, suitable for most contexts. However, "hard copy" might be preferred in more formal settings.