Definition

Noun: 1. A physical, printed version of digital information: A "hard copy" is a permanent, tangible reproduction of data or text that exists electronically, created on paper by a printer or similar device. It contrasts with information displayed on a screen (soft copy).

Usage

The term is used to specify that information exists in a physical, printed form, often for the purposes of distribution, archiving, or official records. It is commonly used in office, academic, and computer contexts. - You need a hard copy of the document for your signature. - Please submit both a digital file and a hard copy of your application. - I prefer to review a hard copy rather than reading long texts on my screen.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "To run off a hard copy": To print a document.
  • He ran off a hard copy of the report for the meeting.
• "Hard copy original": Emphasizes the printed version as the primary or legally binding document.
  • The hard copy original must be filed with the court.

Variants and Related Words

• Printout (n): A synonym for a hard copy, specifically the pages produced by a printer.
  • Here is the printout of the data analysis.
• Soft copy (n): The digital version of a document, as opposed to a hard copy.
  • Please email me the soft copy of the presentation.

Synonyms

• Printout: The physical output from a printer.
• Paper copy: Emphasizes the medium (paper).
• Physical copy: Emphasizes the tangible nature.

Antonyms

• Soft copy: The electronic version of a document.
• Digital file: A computer file containing the information.

Noun

1. (computer science) matter that is held in a computer and is typed or printed on paper
   • he ran off a hard copy of the report