make a copy

Meaning

This phrase means to duplicate a document, file, or record. It can refer to physical photocopying using an office machine or duplicating a digital file (like a spreadsheet or document) on your computer.

Examples

• Can you make a copy of this contract for our files?

  Can you make a copy of this contract for our files?

• I need to make a copy of my ID before the onboarding process.

  I need to make a copy of my ID before the onboarding process.

• Please make a copy of the presentation slides for everyone.

  Please make a copy of the presentation slides for everyone.

• You should make a copy of the spreadsheet before editing it.

  You should make a copy of the spreadsheet before editing it.

• The printer is broken, so I cannot make a copy right now.

  The printer is broken, so I cannot make a copy right now.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I need to do a copy of this document.

  ✓ I need to make a copy of this document.

  In English, we collocate the noun 'copy' with the verb 'make', not 'do'.

• ✗ Can you make copy of the invoice?

  ✓ Can you make a copy of the invoice.

  'Copy' is a singular countable noun and requires the indefinite article 'a'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Before you change the original document, please ___ of it.

  💡 Create a duplicate.

  Show answer

  make a copy

• I will ___ of the office keys for the new employee.

  💡 Produce a duplicate physical item.

  Show answer

  make a copy