the only copy

USAGE SUMMARY

"the only copy" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
For example, you might write, "The only copy of the document was lost when the building burned down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The sources are unnamed and the original report is proving difficult to track down; the only copy of it seems to be in CrackBerry's possession (copied below).

TechCrunch

It is the only copy in the United States and the only copy in private hands.

The New York Times

"No, this is the only copy," White replied.

The New York Times - Books

"This is the only copy in the world," the spokesman said.

The Guardian - Film

It's the only copy, after all". Once handed over, her novels are printed as written, unedited.

The New York Times - Books

Just 13 others survive, and Sotheby's will sell the only copy in private hands next week.

The New York Times

"I traced the only copy to an obscure archive," Sherwin tells me.

The Guardian

And that literally is the only copy, or so RZA says.

The Guardian - Music

One of his creditors in Kansas City had seized the only copy of "Alice".

The New York Times

According to OCLC, Princeton University holds the only copy in North America.

Princeton University

"So our restored version is from absolutely the only copy in existence".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the irreplaceability of a document or item, use "the only copy" to clearly convey its unique and singular status. For example, state concisely: "This is "the only copy" we have, handle it with care."

Common error

Avoid using "the only copy" when multiple copies exist but are simply unavailable or hard to find. Reserve it for situations where, to the best of your knowledge, no other copies exist. Ensure your assertion of uniqueness is well-founded. Don't confuse unavailability with uniqueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only copy" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It specifies that there is just one version of something and Ludwig AI confirms that this is a correct usage. Examples show it used with nouns like "manuscript", "film", and "album".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only copy" is a commonly used phrase to emphasize the singularity and irreplaceability of an item, as supported by numerous examples across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that this is correct. It is grammatically sound, widely understood, and appropriate for neutral communication. While alternative phrases exist, "the only copy" is direct and effective. When using this phrase, ensure its accuracy and consider the implications of highlighting the unique status of the object or document in question.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the only existing copy

Explicitly states that no other copies are currently in existence.

the sole copy

Replaces "only" with "sole", emphasizing exclusivity and uniqueness.

the one and only copy

Adds emphasis to the singularity using a common idiom.

the unique copy

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the copy, highlighting its one-of-a-kind nature.

the single copy

Focuses on the fact that there is just one copy in existence.

the solitary copy

Highlights the isolated existence of the copy, suggesting it's the only one.

the definitive copy

Suggests that this copy is the most authoritative or complete version.

the original copy

Specifies that it is the first or initial version, implying no duplicates were made.

the master copy

Implies that it's the definitive version from which all others would be derived (if they existed).

the exclusive copy

Highlights that access to the copy is restricted or that it's not generally available.

FAQs

How can I use "the only copy" in a sentence?

You can use "the only copy" to emphasize the uniqueness and irreplaceability of something. For example, "This manuscript is "the only copy" in existence, making it extremely valuable."

What can I say instead of "the only copy"?

Alternatives include "the sole copy", "the unique copy", or "the single copy". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "the only original copy"?

Yes, using both "original" and "only" can be redundant. The term "original copy" already implies that it's the first and, in some contexts, the only one. Saying "the only copy" is usually sufficient.

Which is correct: "the only copy that exists" or "the only copy existing"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "the only copy that exists" is generally preferred for its clarity and common usage. However, "the only existing copy" can also work.