copy paper: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral, but most common in business and office contexts.
Quick answer
What does “copy paper” mean?
Uncoated paper of a standard quality, typically used in photocopiers, laser printers, and inkjet printers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Uncoated paper of a standard quality, typically used in photocopiers, laser printers, and inkjet printers.
Any paper designed for producing copies, including bond paper and multipurpose paper; sometimes extended to refer to standard office paper used for general printing tasks.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use 'copy paper'. In the UK, 'printer paper' or 'A4 paper' might be equally common. In the US, 'copy paper' is the dominant term.
Connotations
Neutral in both, associated with office supplies and stationery.
Frequency
More frequent in American English. In the UK, specifying the size (e.g., 'A4 paper') is very common.
Grammar
How to Use “copy paper” in a Sentence
[Verb] + copy paper (e.g., buy, order, load, use)[Adjective] + copy paper (e.g., white, recycled, standard)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “copy paper” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Could you copy-paper the tray, please? (Very rare/contextual)
American English
- We need to copy-paper the machine before the meeting. (Very rare/contextual)
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverbial use]
American English
- [No standard adverbial use]
adjective
British English
- The copy-paper quality is satisfactory. (Hyphenated attributive use)
American English
- Check the copy-paper specifications. (Hyphenated attributive use)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Common in procurement, office management, and supply requests. 'We need to order three more reams of copy paper.'
Academic
Used in administrative contexts (department offices, libraries). 'The thesis must be printed on standard white copy paper.'
Everyday
Less frequent, but used when discussing home office supplies. 'I'm popping to the shop for some copy paper.'
Technical
Specifications may refer to weight (e.g., 80gsm), brightness, and compatibility with specific printers.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “copy paper”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “copy paper”
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a copy paper' is incorrect; use 'a sheet of copy paper' or 'a ream of copy paper').
- Confusing it with 'carbon paper' or 'tracing paper'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an uncountable (mass) noun. You refer to quantities like 'a ream of copy paper', 'three sheets of copy paper', or 'some copy paper'.
They are often used interchangeably. 'Copy paper' historically emphasised use in photocopiers, while 'printer paper' is broader. Today, 'multipurpose paper' covers both.
Yes, most modern 'copy paper' or 'multipurpose paper' is designed for both laser and inkjet printers, but for high-quality photo printing, dedicated photo paper is better.
It stands for 'grams per square metre' and indicates the paper's weight/thickness. Standard copy paper is usually 80gsm. Higher gsm means thicker, heavier paper.
Uncoated paper of a standard quality, typically used in photocopiers, laser printers, and inkjet printers.
Copy paper is usually neutral, but most common in business and office contexts. in register.
Copy paper: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒp.i ˌpeɪ.pə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑː.pi ˌpeɪ.pɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific compound]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COPY machine: the PAPER you put in it to make copies is COPY PAPER.
Conceptual Metaphor
PAPER IS A COMMODITY / A CONSUMABLE RESOURCE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most typical use for 'copy paper'?