copy taster: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Professional/Journalism
Quick answer
What does “copy taster” mean?
A person, usually in a newspaper or magazine office, who reads submitted articles, stories, or reports to decide whether they are suitable for publication.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, usually in a newspaper or magazine office, who reads submitted articles, stories, or reports to decide whether they are suitable for publication.
Any editor or reviewer who screens written content for quality, suitability, or newsworthiness before it is published or broadcast. The role involves making quick judgments on the value and appeal of text.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is more firmly established and historically common in British journalism. In American English, the function exists but job titles like 'assigning editor', 'manuscript reader', or simply 'editor' are more prevalent.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a discerning, often hurried, preliminary judgment. In the UK, it may have a slightly more traditional, print-media association.
Frequency
Low frequency in general English, but moderate within the specific domain of UK media/journalism. Very low frequency in everyday American English.
Grammar
How to Use “copy taster” in a Sentence
[Person/Organization] works as a copy taster for [Publication]The copy taster rejected/selected/passed on [the article]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “copy taster” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A - not standard as a verb. Use 'to vet copy'.
American English
- N/A - not standard as a verb. Use 'to screen submissions'.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A - the noun is not typically used attributively. Use 'copy-tasting' as a compound adjective (e.g., copy-tasting duties).
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in general business; specific to publishing/media businesses.
Academic
Rarely used; relevant only in media studies or journalism history.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
A technical term within the publishing and journalism industry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “copy taster”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “copy taster”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “copy taster”
- Confusing it with 'copywriter' (who creates text).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I will copy taste this' is non-standard).
- Spelling as one word 'copytaster' (less common).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is less common than in the past, especially in its traditional form. The function still exists but is often part of broader editorial or digital production roles with different titles.
Yes, though it originated in print. It can apply to someone who screens scripts, news items, or programme ideas for TV or radio.
A copy taster makes the initial 'go/no-go' decision on whether to use a piece. A copy editor works on the text that has already been accepted, checking and improving grammar, style, clarity, and accuracy.
It is understood in other English-speaking countries familiar with British media terminology, but it is not a standard job title in American journalism.
A person, usually in a newspaper or magazine office, who reads submitted articles, stories, or reports to decide whether they are suitable for publication.
Copy taster is usually professional/journalism in register.
Copy taster: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒpi ˌteɪstə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːpi ˌteɪstər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “have a good copy-taster's eye (an ability to quickly spot good writing)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a wine taster, but for text ('copy'). A COPY TASTER 'tastes' or samples articles to see if they're 'good' enough to print.
Conceptual Metaphor
EDITING IS TASTING (sampling for quality), TEXT IS FOOD (to be consumed by readers), GATEKEEPER (controlling what passes through).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a copy taster?