Definition

Noun: 1. A preliminary printed impression produced to check for errors before the final print run: In the context of printing, a "test copy" is a single printed sample or proof made to examine and correct any mistakes in layout, color, text, or images. It serves as a quality control step before mass production.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The designer reviewed the test copy for any typographical errors.
  • Before approving the full print run, we must examine the test copy carefully.
  • The printer sent a test copy, and we found a crucial mistake in the margin.

Advanced Usage

• "to pull a test copy": A printing industry phrase meaning to produce a single proof or sample for inspection.
  • We need to pull a test copy before committing to the final batch.

Variants and Related Words

• Proof (noun): A general term for a preliminary version of printed material for checking and correction. Often used interchangeably with "test copy" in many contexts.
  • The editor marked corrections on the proof.
• Galley proof (noun): A specific type of proof, traditionally an early version of text before it is divided into pages.
• Page proof (noun): A proof of a page as it will appear in the final publication.

Synonyms

• Proof: A trial impression or version for checking.
• Proof sheet: A sheet of paper containing a proof.
• Trial impression: An impression taken to examine the state of the printing surface.

Related Phrases

• Proofreading: The process of reading and marking errors on a proof or test copy.
  • Proofreading the test copy is an essential final step.
• Press proof: A proof taken on the printing press itself, often the final check before the full run.

Noun

1. (printing) an impression made to check for errors