copying machine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumNeutral/Formal
Quick answer
What does “copying machine” mean?
A device that creates duplicate copies of documents or images from an original.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that creates duplicate copies of documents or images from an original.
A machine, particularly an office machine, that uses various technologies (e.g., xerography, digital scanning) to produce paper copies.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'photocopier' is overwhelmingly more common. In the US, 'copier' is the dominant short form, but 'copying machine' is understood.
Connotations
The term can sound slightly dated or more formal than its shorter alternatives in both varieties.
Frequency
Low frequency in modern spoken English, being replaced by shorter forms. More likely found in written instructions or technical specifications.
Grammar
How to Use “copying machine” in a Sentence
Please make X copies on the copying machine.The office needs a new copying machine.The document is at the copying machine.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “copying machine” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I'll be copying the report later.
American English
- I'll copy the report later.
adjective
British English
- Please follow the copying procedure.
American English
- Please follow the copy procedure.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in procurement, office management, and facilities contexts (e.g., 'We need to upgrade our copying machines.')
Academic
Found in library or administrative notices, less common in research discourse.
Everyday
Less common; 'photocopier' or 'copier' preferred.
Technical
Used in manuals, specifications, or historical discussions of office technology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “copying machine”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “copying machine”
- Incorrect: 'copy machine' (though common in speech) is technically a less standard clipping than 'copier'.
- Using 'copying machine' when referring to a printer that cannot scan/copy.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A printer typically only produces originals from digital files. A copying machine creates copies from existing physical originals. Many modern devices are combined printer/copier/scanners (MFPs).
They are largely synonymous, but 'photocopier' is more specific to machines using photographic/xerographic processes and is far more common in everyday speech. 'Copying machine' is a broader, more formal term.
Xerox is a famous brand name that became a genericised trademark (like Hoover for vacuum cleaner). It's an informal, brand-specific term for a photocopier.
It is frequently used in casual American English and is understood, but 'copier' or 'photocopier' are the preferred standard terms. 'Copying machine' is the more grammatically traditional form.
A device that creates duplicate copies of documents or images from an original.
Copying machine is usually neutral/formal in register.
Copying machine: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒp.i.ɪŋ məˌʃiːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑː.pi.ɪŋ məˌʃiːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A glorified copying machine (disparaging remark about an uncreative person or device)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a machine whose sole job is to COPY things. COPY + ING + MACHINE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A REPLICATION/CLONING DEVICE.
Practice
Quiz
Which term is the most common modern synonym for 'copying machine'?