separate copies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separate copies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to distinct versions or duplicates of a document or item that are not combined or merged. Example: "Please ensure that you send me separate copies of the report for each team member."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

The two folders contain separate copies.

Cornell University

The two tablets are not duplicates but separate copies of an older source.

Britannica

Rather than maintaining intact editions of periodicals, the library would contain separate copies of each article.

The New York Times

[n12] Rather than maintaining intact editions of periodicals, the library would contain separate copies of each article.

Cornell University

The Authors also complain that the HDL creates and maintains four separate copies of the copyrighted works at issue.

Harvard University

They are both reading Ken Robinson's "The Element," but bought two separate copies — a print book for $15 and a $13 Kindle version for the iPad.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

You would not fax 10 separate copies-instead, you might fax one and ask a friend to make copies.

MIT Technology Review

This can be inefficient because it stores a separate copy of the page for each language.

University of California, Berkeley

Each network ran it uninterrupted except ABC, which said it had obtained a separate copy of the tape.

The New York Times

Please also submit an additional, separate copy of your title page that includes your name and email address.

Yale University

Therefore, you must purchase a separate copy of this simulation for each person who will be participating, regardless of the number of roles in the simulation.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal or contractual contexts, specify "separate copies" when each party needs its own official version of a document to avoid disputes about alterations or versions.

Common error

Avoid using "separate copies" as a substitute for proper version control in collaborative writing or software development. While keeping duplicates might seem like a safeguard, it lacks the tracking and merging capabilities of a true version control system, leading to potential chaos and lost changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separate copies" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement within a sentence. It identifies the existence of multiple, distinct instances of something, as shown in Ludwig's examples from various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "separate copies" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote multiple, distinct versions of something. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and widespread use. It appears frequently in scientific, academic, and news contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When writing, ensure you use "separate copies" when emphasizing the independence or potential for divergence among versions, rather than simply indicating duplicates. Consider alternatives like "duplicate copies" or "multiple copies" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

duplicate copies

Highlights the act of making a copy or copies.

multiple copies

Emphasizes that there is more than one copy available.

distinct copies

Highlights that each copy is recognizably different.

individual copies

Focuses on each copy being treated as a single unit.

additional copies

Stresses that the copies are supplemental or extra.

redundant copies

Emphasizes that the copies are unnecessary or excessive.

discrete copies

Highlights that each copy is clearly separated from the others.

standalone copies

Each copy can exist and operate independently.

isolated copies

Copies are physically or logically separated from others.

replicated copies

The copies are produced through a process of replication.

FAQs

What does "separate copies" mean?

The phrase "separate copies" refers to multiple, distinct versions of the same content or item, where each copy exists independently of the others. This is often done for backup, distribution, or independent modification purposes.

When should I use "separate copies" instead of "duplicates"?

Use "separate copies" when you want to emphasize the independence or potential for divergence among the copies. "Duplicates" simply implies identical versions, while "separate copies" suggests each could be altered or used differently. Consider alternatives like "duplicate copies", "multiple copies", or "distinct copies".

What are some contexts where "separate copies" are important?

Maintaining "separate copies" is crucial in data backup (to prevent data loss), legal agreements (where each party needs an official version), and collaborative projects (for individual editing and version control) . It is also relevant in copyright law when discussing authorized and unauthorized reproductions.

Is there a difference between "separate copy" and "separate copies"?

Yes. "Separate copy" refers to a single, distinct version, while "separate copies" refers to multiple such versions. The choice depends on whether you're talking about one item or more than one.