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fotocopiar

A2 verb 13 min read

fotocopiar

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips fotocopiar in 30 Seconds

Explanation fotocopiar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'fotocopiar' means 'to photocopy'. You will likely encounter it in a classroom setting where a teacher might say, 'Voy a fotocopiar los ejercicios' (I am going to photocopy the exercises). It is a long word, but don't be intimidated! It is made of two parts you might already know: 'foto' (photo) and 'copiar' (to copy). At this stage, focus on the present tense 'yo fotocopio' or the simple future 'voy a fotocopiar'. You can use it to ask for help in a library or a shop: '¿Puede fotocopiar esto, por favor?'. Remember that in Spanish, we use an 'f' instead of the English 'ph'. It is a regular verb, so it follows the same rules as 'hablar' or 'cocinar'. If you can say 'yo hablo', you can say 'yo fotocopio'. It is a very practical word for students who need to share notes or copy pages from a book they cannot borrow. Just think of the machine in the corner of the room, and the word will come to you!

At the A2 level, you should be able to use 'fotocopiar' in more complete sentences and understand its various forms. You will use it to describe daily office tasks or school routines. For example, 'Ayer fotocopié todos los documentos para el jefe' (Yesterday I photocopied all the documents for the boss). You should also be familiar with the noun 'la fotocopiadora' (the photocopier) and 'la fotocopia' (the photocopy). At this level, you start using direct object pronouns: '¿Necesitas los papeles? Sí, voy a fotocopiarlos ahora' (Do you need the papers? Yes, I'm going to photocopy them now). You might also learn related technical terms like 'tóner', 'papel', or 'atasco' (jam). It's important to distinguish 'fotocopiar' from 'imprimir' (to print) or 'escanear' (to scan), as these are distinct actions in a modern office. You might also use it in the imperative form to give simple instructions: 'Fotocopia estas dos páginas'. The verb is essential for basic administrative interactions in any Spanish-speaking country.

At the B1 level, you can use 'fotocopiar' to talk about more complex situations, including hypothetical ones using the subjunctive or conditional. For instance, 'Si tuviera una fotocopiadora en casa, fotocopiaría todo el libro' (If I had a photocopier at home, I would photocopy the whole book). You will also use it in the present subjunctive when expressing desires or orders: 'Mi jefe quiere que fotocopie estos informes antes de las cinco' (My boss wants me to photocopy these reports before five). You should understand the nuances between 'fotocopiar' and synonyms like 'reproducir' or 'duplicar'. At this stage, you might also discuss the ethics or legality of photocopying, such as 'derechos de autor' (copyright). You can describe processes in more detail, like 'fotocopiar por las dos caras' (to photocopy on both sides) or 'ampliar una imagen al fotocopiarla' (to enlarge an image while photocopying it). Your vocabulary is expanding to include the social context of the word, such as 'la copistería' or 'el locutorio' where these services are provided.

At the B2 level, 'fotocopiar' is a word you use fluently in professional and academic discussions. You can talk about the technical efficiency of different machines or the environmental impact of excessive photocopying: 'Deberíamos dejar de fotocopiar tanto para ahorrar papel' (We should stop photocopying so much to save paper). You are comfortable with the passive voice and impersonal 'se' constructions: 'Se recomienda fotocopiar los documentos originales para evitar que se dañen' (It is recommended to photocopy original documents to prevent them from being damaged). You might also use the verb metaphorically or in more specialized contexts, like discussing the 'fanzine' culture or the history of information technology. You understand the administrative importance of 'compulsar una fotocopia' (certifying a photocopy) and can navigate complex bureaucratic requirements. Your use of the verb is precise, and you can easily switch between formal and informal registers depending on whether you are talking to a technician, a colleague, or a shop assistant.

At the C1 level, 'fotocopiar' is just one of many tools in your linguistic arsenal. You can discuss the word's etymology and its place within the evolution of media and reproduction. You might use it in a debate about intellectual property: 'La facilidad para fotocopiar y distribuir contenidos ha transformado radicalmente nuestra concepción de la propiedad intelectual' (The ease of photocopying and distributing content has radically transformed our conception of intellectual property). You can use the verb in complex literary or academic structures, employing all tenses and moods with precision. You might explore the philosophical implications of the 'copy', perhaps referencing Walter Benjamin's 'The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction' (La obra de arte en la época de su reproductibilidad técnica). You are also aware of regional variations and slang, such as 'xeroxear', but you choose to use the standard 'fotocopiar' for its clarity and professional tone. Your mastery allows you to use the verb in nuanced ways, perhaps even ironically or creatively in writing.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like command of 'fotocopiar'. You understand not just the word, but the entire socio-technical ecosystem surrounding it. You can write technical manuals about photocopying processes, legal briefs about document reproduction, or cultural essays on the 'death of paper'. You use the verb effortlessly in high-pressure professional environments, perhaps coordinating large-scale document production for international conferences. You are sensitive to the subtle differences in meaning between 'fotocopiar', 'clonar', 'replicar', and 'calcar' in various contexts. You can use the verb in sophisticated wordplay or metaphors. For you, 'fotocopiar' is not just a task, but a concept integrated into your broad understanding of Spanish culture, law, and history. You might even discuss the obsolescence of the verb in the face of 3D printing or blockchain-verified digital originals, showing a deep awareness of how language evolves alongside technology. Your use of the word is flawless, natural, and always contextually appropriate.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

fotocopiar in 30 Seconds

Fotocopiar is a regular Spanish -ar verb that means 'to photocopy' a physical document using a machine.
It is commonly used in professional, academic, and administrative settings throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
The word is a compound of 'foto' and 'copiar', and it is always spelled with an 'f' in Spanish.
Key related terms include 'fotocopiadora' (the machine) and 'fotocopia' (the resulting paper copy).

The Spanish verb fotocopiar is a technical yet everyday term that translates directly to the English verb 'to photocopy'. In the modern world, while digital scanning and cloud sharing have become dominant, the physical act of reproducing a document on paper remains a fundamental task in offices, schools, and legal environments across the Spanish-speaking world. The word itself is a compound, merging 'foto' (light/photo) and 'copiar' (to copy), reflecting the xerographic process of using light to duplicate text and images. When you use this word, you are specifically referring to the use of a photocopier machine, known in Spanish as a fotocopiadora.

Workplace Context: In a professional setting, you will hear this word constantly. Whether it is a secretary needing to distribute a memo or a lawyer preparing evidence, the verb is used to describe the preparation of physical sets of documents. It is often paired with nouns like 'documentos', 'archivos', or 'informes'.
Educational Context: Students in Spain and Latin America frequent the 'copistería' (copy shop). You might say, 'Necesito fotocopiar estos apuntes' (I need to photocopy these notes). It is an essential verb for academic survival when textbooks are expensive or shared.

Por favor, ¿podría fotocopiar este contrato por ambas caras para la reunión de mañana?

The usage of fotocopiar is strictly for physical reproduction. If you are sending a digital copy via email, you would use 'escanear' (to scan) or 'enviar una copia' (to send a copy). However, in many colloquial settings, people might use 'fotocopiar' even when they mean 'to scan to PDF' if the machine being used is a multi-function printer. It is important to distinguish between the two in formal instructions to avoid confusion between digital and physical outputs. Furthermore, the verb follows the regular -ar conjugation pattern, making it relatively easy for beginners to master once they understand the root.

Legal and Administrative Use: In bureaucracy, 'fotocopiar' is a step in 'compulsar' (to certify a copy). You must photocopy your ID and then have it stamped to prove the copy is faithful to the original. Here, the verb takes on a more formal weight.

Es obligatorio fotocopiar el pasaporte antes de solicitar el visado de residencia.

Historically, the rise of the photocopier changed how information was disseminated in the Spanish-speaking world during the mid-20th century. Before this, carbon paper ('papel carbón') was used. The verb fotocopiar represents that technological leap. Even today, despite the 'paperless' office movement, the phrase 'ir a fotocopiar' remains a common excuse to get up from one's desk and interact with colleagues in the breakroom or near the machine. It is a word that bridges the gap between mechanical labor and administrative necessity.

Technical Nuances: When you photocopy, you might need to specify 'a color' (in color) or 'en blanco y negro' (in black and white). You might also need to 'ampliar' (enlarge) or 'reducir' (reduce) the size of the original document during the process.

Si el texto es muy pequeño, intenta fotocopiar la página con un aumento del ciento cincuenta por ciento.

Using fotocopiar correctly involves understanding its role as a transitive verb, meaning it usually requires a direct object—the thing being copied. Because it is a regular -ar verb, it follows the standard endings for all tenses. For example, in the present tense: yo fotocopio, tú fotocopias, él/ella fotocopia, nosotros fotocopiamos, vosotros fotocopiáis, ellos/ellas fotocopian. This predictability makes it an excellent verb for A2 learners to practice their conjugation skills while discussing practical daily tasks.

Direct Object Pronouns: When the document has already been mentioned, we use pronouns. '¿Has fotocopiado el informe?' 'Sí, lo he fotocopiado'. Here, 'lo' replaces 'el informe'. If copying multiple pages (las páginas), you would say 'las he fotocopiado'.

No tengo el libro original, así que tuve que fotocopiar los capítulos más importantes para estudiar.

In commands, which are frequent in office settings, you might use the formal 'usted' form: 'Fotocopie estos papeles, por favor'. Or in a more casual setting with a friend: 'Fotocopia esto por mí, ¿vale?'. The verb can also be used in the passive voice with 'se', which is common on signs: 'Aquí se fotocopian documentos' (Documents are photocopied here). This construction is useful for describing services offered by a business.

Using Adverbs: To describe how the copying is done, use adverbs. 'Fotocopiar rápidamente' (to photocopy quickly), 'fotocopiar cuidadosamente' (to photocopy carefully—important for old documents), or 'fotocopiar ilegalmente' (to photocopy illegally, referring to copyright issues).

El becario está terminando de fotocopiar todas las facturas del trimestre pasado.

The verb also appears in complex tenses. For instance, the present perfect ('he fotocopiado') is used for actions recently completed. 'Ya he fotocopiado todo lo que me pediste' (I have already photocopied everything you asked me for). In the future, it might express intent: 'Mañana fotocopiaré el resto de los planos' (Tomorrow I will photocopy the rest of the blueprints). The flexibility of the verb allows it to fit into any temporal context required by the speaker.

Purpose Clauses: We often explain *why* we are photocopying using 'para'. 'Necesito la máquina para fotocopiar mi DNI' (I need the machine to photocopy my ID). This is a very common sentence structure in administrative offices.

¿Podrías fotocopiar este dibujo? Quiero tener una copia para mi habitación.

Understanding where fotocopiar lives in the real world helps you recognize it in context. The most common location is the 'oficina' (office). In any corporate environment from Mexico City to Madrid, the sound of the 'fotocopiadora' is a constant background noise. You will hear bosses asking subordinates to 'fotocopiar el informe de ventas' or colleagues asking each other if the machine has enough 'tóner' or 'papel' to finish a job.

The 'Copistería' Culture: In Spain and many Latin American countries, university life revolves around the 'copistería'. These are small shops, often located inside or near faculty buildings, dedicated entirely to photocopying. You will hear students saying: 'Voy a la copistería a fotocopiar los apuntes de Historia'. These shops are social hubs where the word is used hundreds of times a day.

En la copistería de la facultad, fotocopiar una página solo cuesta cinco céntimos.

Another key location is the 'biblioteca' (library). While many libraries now offer digital scanning, many still provide self-service machines. You will see signs that say: 'Prohibido fotocopiar libros enteros' (Photocopying entire books is prohibited) due to copyright laws ('derechos de autor'). Librarians will use the word when explaining the rules of the facility to new members.

The 'Locutorio': In many immigrant communities and neighborhoods in Spain, a 'locutorio' is a place where people go to make international calls, use the internet, and send money. These shops almost always have a sign in the window saying 'Se fotocopia' or 'Fotocopias'. It is a vital service for people needing to process immigration paperwork.

Fui al locutorio de la esquina para fotocopiar mi permiso de trabajo.

Finally, you will hear the word in creative and artistic contexts. Artists might 'fotocopiar' their sketches to experiment with different colors or collages. In the world of 'fanzines' (self-published magazines), the act of 'fotocopiar' is seen as a rebellious, DIY (do-it-yourself) method of sharing information outside of traditional publishing houses. The word carries a sense of accessibility—anyone with a few coins can reproduce their ideas and distribute them to the world.

Technical Support: If a machine breaks, you might call the 'servicio técnico' and say: 'La máquina no puede fotocopiar porque hay un atasco de papel' (The machine cannot photocopy because there is a paper jam). The technician will use the verb while testing the repair.

Después de arreglar el rodillo, la máquina volvió a fotocopiar con nitidez.

Even though fotocopiar is a relatively straightforward verb, English speakers often stumble on a few specific areas. The most common mistake is confusing 'fotocopiar' with 'escanear'. While they often happen on the same machine, 'fotocopiar' results in a paper copy, whereas 'escanear' results in a digital file. Using the wrong one can lead to confusion in a professional setting where you might be asked to provide a physical document but you provide a PDF instead.

Spelling Errors: English speakers often want to add a 'y' or change the 'i' because of the English word 'photocopy'. Remember, in Spanish, it is 'fotocopi-ar'. There is no 'y' in the middle of the word. Also, ensure you don't use 'ph'—it is always 'f' in Spanish ('foto', not 'photo').

Incorrecto: *Photocopiar* el documento.
Correcto: Fotocopiar el documento.

Another mistake is the over-reliance on the phrase 'hacer una fotocopia'. While not wrong, it sounds 'translated' from English. Native speakers prefer the verb form. It's the difference between saying 'I am going to make a photocopy' and 'I am going to photocopy'. The latter is more natural in Spanish. Furthermore, learners often forget the 'i' in the conjugation of some forms, like 'fotocopiamos' or 'fotocopiáis', though this is less common with -ar verbs than with -ir verbs.

Preposition Pitfalls: Sometimes learners try to use 'de' after the verb, like 'fotocopiar de mi pasaporte'. This is incorrect. The verb is transitive and takes the object directly: 'fotocopiar mi pasaporte'. You only use 'de' if you are talking about copying *from* a source, but even then, it is usually omitted.

No digas: *Fotocopia de la página*.
Di: Fotocopia la página.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'copia' itself. In Spanish, 'una copia' can be the result of a photocopy, but it can also be a carbon copy or a duplicate file. If you specifically mean the action of using the machine, stick to the verb fotocopiar. Also, avoid the anglicism 'xeroxear' in formal writing. While understood in parts of Latin America, it is considered slang or informal and is generally frowned upon in professional Spanish environments.

Gender Agreement: When using the past participle as an adjective (fotocopiado/a), remember it must agree with the noun. 'La página fotocopiada' (The photocopied page) vs 'El papel fotocopiado' (The photocopied paper).

Estas hojas están mal fotocopiadas; el texto sale borroso.

While fotocopiar is the most precise term for using a photocopier, the Spanish language offers several alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms and related verbs will make your Spanish sound more sophisticated and help you navigate different professional or social contexts more effectively.

Copiar vs. Fotocopiar: 'Copiar' is the general verb for 'to copy'. It can refer to copying by hand, copying a file on a computer, or even mimicking someone's behavior. 'Fotocopiar' is a subset of 'copiar' specifically involving a light-based machine. Use 'copiar' if the method doesn't matter, and 'fotocopiar' if it does.
Escanear: 'Escanear' means 'to scan'. In the modern office, this has largely replaced photocopying for document distribution. If you want to send a document via email, you 'escaneas' it to create a digital version. You do not 'fotocopiar' it unless you want a physical sheet of paper.

En lugar de fotocopiar el informe, es mejor escanearlo y enviarlo por correo electrónico.

Another useful word is duplicar. This means 'to duplicate' or 'to double'. It is often used in more formal or technical contexts, such as 'duplicar una llave' (to duplicate a key) or 'duplicar un registro' (to duplicate a record). While you can 'duplicar' a document by photocopying it, 'duplicar' emphasizes the result (having two) rather than the process (using the machine).

Reproducir: 'Reproducir' is often used in the context of art or legal rights. You might 'reproducir una obra' (reproduce a work of art). It is a broader term that encompasses photocopying but also printing, casting, or filming. It is the word used in copyright warnings: 'Prohibida su reproducción total o parcial'.

El artista decidió fotocopiar sus bocetos para poder reproducir la misma imagen en diferentes texturas.

In a very informal setting, especially in Mexico or parts of Central America, you might hear sacar una copia. This is the most common colloquial alternative. If you are at a corner store that has a copier, you would ask: '¿Me puede sacar una copia de esto?'. It is less formal than '¿Puede fotocopiarme esto?', but both are perfectly acceptable and understood. Finally, 'imprimir' (to print) is different because it implies sending a file from a computer to a printer, whereas 'fotocopiar' implies having a physical original already in hand.

Compulsar: This is a specific administrative verb meaning 'to certify a photocopy'. You cannot 'compulsar' without first 'fotocopiar'. It is a key term for anyone dealing with Spanish bureaucracy or university applications.

Primero tienes que fotocopiar el título y luego traerlo aquí para que lo podamos compulsar.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'Xerox' is so dominant that in some countries, 'xeroxear' is used more often than 'fotocopiar', but the latter remains the only 'correct' dictionary term.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /fo.to.koˈpjaɾ/

US /foʊ.toʊ.koʊˈpjaɾ/

The primary stress is on the last syllable: fo-to-co-PIAR.

Rhymes With

estudiar trabajar enviar limpiar cambiar viajar copiar anunciar

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ph' instead of 'f'.
Adding a 'y' sound before the 'i' as in the English 'photocopy'.
Stressing the 'fo' or 'co' instead of the final 'piar'.
Pronouncing the 'r' like the English 'r' instead of a Spanish tap.
Turning the 'o' into a schwa sound (uh).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize because it looks like the English word.

Writing 2/5

Moderate due to the length and the 'f' vs 'ph' difference.

Speaking 2/5

Easy conjugation, but the four syllables require clear pronunciation.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, hard to confuse with other words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

foto copiar papel máquina documento

Learn Next

escanear imprimir archivar compulsar tóner

Advanced

xerografía reproductibilidad propiedad intelectual legajo burocracia

Grammar to Know

Regular -ar verb conjugation

Yo fotocopio, tú fotocopias, él fotocopia.

Placement of direct object pronouns

Voy a fotocopiarlo / Lo voy a fotocopiar.

Passive 'se' for services

Se fotocopian documentos aquí.

Preposition 'para' to express purpose

Uso la máquina para fotocopiar.

Gerund formation (-ando)

Estoy fotocopiando los exámenes.

Examples by Level

Yo fotocopio mi pasaporte.

I photocopy my passport.

Present tense, 1st person singular.

¿Puedes fotocopiar este papel?

Can you photocopy this paper?

Infinitive after the modal verb 'poder'.

Ella va a fotocopiar la tarea.

She is going to photocopy the homework.

Future with 'ir a' + infinitive.

Nosotros fotocopiamos el libro.

We photocopy the book.

Present tense, 1st person plural.

Él necesita fotocopiar una foto.

He needs to photocopy a photo.

Infinitive after 'necesitar'.

Ellos fotocopian los dibujos.

They photocopy the drawings.

Present tense, 3rd person plural.

Tengo que fotocopiar mi DNI.

I have to photocopy my ID card.

Obligation with 'tener que' + infinitive.

¿Dónde puedo fotocopiar?

Where can I photocopy?

Interrogative sentence using 'poder'.

Ayer fotocopié todos los informes.

Yesterday I photocopied all the reports.

Preterite tense, 1st person singular.

No fotocopies este documento, es privado.

Don't photocopy this document, it's private.

Negative informal command (tú).

Estamos fotocopiando los apuntes para el examen.

We are photocopying the notes for the exam.

Present progressive with 'estar' + gerund.

La máquina no fotocopia bien hoy.

The machine is not photocopying well today.

Present tense, 3rd person singular.

¿Has fotocopiado ya el contrato?

Have you already photocopied the contract?

Present perfect tense.

Ella siempre fotocopia sus recetas de cocina.

She always photocopies her cooking recipes.

Present tense expressing a habit.

Voy a la biblioteca a fotocopiar un mapa.

I'm going to the library to photocopy a map.

Purpose clause with 'a' + infinitive.

Ellos fotocopiaron la revista entera.

They photocopied the whole magazine.

Preterite tense, 3rd person plural.

Si tuviera tiempo, fotocopiaría las fotos antiguas.

If I had time, I would photocopy the old photos.

Conditional mood.

Espero que fotocopies esto antes de irte.

I hope you photocopy this before leaving.

Present subjunctive after 'esperar que'.

Me pidió que fotocopiara el manual de instrucciones.

He asked me to photocopy the instruction manual.

Imperfect subjunctive in an indirect command.

Aunque la máquina es vieja, todavía fotocopia rápido.

Even though the machine is old, it still photocopies fast.

Concessive clause with 'aunque'.

Había fotocopiado el carné antes de perderlo.

I had photocopied the ID card before losing it.

Past perfect (pluscuamperfecto).

Para ahorrar, fotocopiamos por las dos caras.

To save, we photocopy on both sides.

Present tense with a purpose phrase.

No creo que sea legal fotocopiar este libro.

I don't think it's legal to photocopy this book.

Infinitive as a subject in a doubt clause.

Cuando termines de fotocopiar, apaga la luz.

When you finish photocopying, turn off the light.

Temporal clause with 'cuando' + subjunctive.

Se prohíbe fotocopiar material con derechos de autor.

Photocopying copyrighted material is prohibited.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

Habríamos fotocopiado el dossier si la máquina no se hubiera roto.

We would have photocopied the dossier if the machine hadn't broken.

Conditional perfect and pluperfect subjunctive.

El secretario se pasó la mañana fotocopiando expedientes.

The secretary spent the morning photocopying files.

Gerund expressing duration.

Es fundamental fotocopiar los recibos para la contabilidad.

It is fundamental to photocopy the receipts for accounting.

Infinitive as a noun clause.

Dudo que hayan fotocopiado ya todas las pruebas del juicio.

I doubt they have already photocopied all the trial evidence.

Present perfect subjunctive after 'dudar'.

Al fotocopiar el plano, asegúrate de no perder la escala.

When photocopying the blueprint, make sure not to lose the scale.

'Al' + infinitive construction.

Llevo tres horas intentando fotocopiar estos planos gigantes.

I've been trying to photocopy these giant blueprints for three hours.

'Llevar' + duration + gerund.

Fue fotocopiado ilegalmente y distribuido por la red.

It was illegally photocopied and distributed online.

Passive voice.

La empresa fue multada por fotocopiar software sin licencia.

The company was fined for photocopying software (manuals) without a license.

Infinitive after the preposition 'por'.

Resulta paradójico fotocopiar un manifiesto contra la tecnología.

It is paradoxical to photocopy a manifesto against technology.

Complex subject infinitive.

A pesar de la digitalización, se sigue necesitando fotocopiar ciertos documentos notariales.

Despite digitalization, there is still a need to photocopy certain notary documents.

Impersonal 'se' with a continuous aspect.

Cualquiera que haya intentado fotocopiar un libro antiguo conoce el riesgo de dañar el lomo.

Anyone who has tried to photocopy an old book knows the risk of damaging the spine.

Relative clause with perfect subjunctive.

No es que no quiera fotocopiarlo, es que el tóner se ha agotado por completo.

It's not that I don't want to photocopy it, it's that the toner has completely run out.

Contrastive subjunctive construction.

La calidad de imagen se degrada cada vez que vuelves a fotocopiar una copia.

Image quality degrades every time you photocopy a copy again.

Iterative action with 'volver a' + infinitive.

Me pregunto si el acto de fotocopiar un diario personal vulnera la intimidad del autor.

I wonder if the act of photocopying a personal diary violates the author's privacy.

Indirect question with an infinitive subject.

Siguieron fotocopiando panfletos hasta que la policía clausuró la imprenta clandestina.

They kept photocopying pamphlets until the police closed the clandestine press.

Past progressive with 'seguir' + gerund.

La obsolescencia programada de las máquinas de fotocopiar es un tema recurrente en la crítica al capitalismo.

The planned obsolescence of photocopying machines is a recurring theme in the critique of capitalism.

Infinitive used as a gerundive noun.

Habiendo fotocopiado ya el legajo íntegro, procedimos a su análisis paleográfico.

Having already photocopied the entire file, we proceeded to its paleographic analysis.

Compound gerund for completed action.

Sería una temeridad fotocopiar estos pergaminos sin la debida protección contra la radiación UV de la lámpara.

It would be a recklessness to photocopy these parchments without proper protection against the UV radiation of the lamp.

Conditional mood with a complex subject.

El artista subvierte la técnica al fotocopiar objetos tridimensionales, creando texturas fantasmagóricas.

The artist subverts the technique by photocopying three-dimensional objects, creating phantasmagoric textures.

Gerundial use of 'al' + infinitive.

Por mucho que se empeñen en fotocopiar la realidad, siempre habrá un matiz que escape a la reproducción mecánica.

No matter how much they insist on photocopying reality, there will always be a nuance that escapes mechanical reproduction.

Concessive subjunctive construction.

La imposibilidad de fotocopiar el alma es el último reducto del misticismo frente a la era digital.

The impossibility of photocopying the soul is the last stronghold of mysticism against the digital age.

Infinitive as a conceptual noun.

Se le acusó de fotocopiar subrepticiamente documentos clasificados para venderlos a una potencia extranjera.

He was accused of surreptitiously photocopying classified documents to sell them to a foreign power.

Passive construction with an adverbial modifier.

La resolución alcanzada al fotocopiar con este nuevo escáner láser es sencillamente inaudita.

The resolution achieved when photocopying with this new laser scanner is simply unprecedented.

Infinitive phrase within a subject clause.

Common Collocations

fotocopiar un documento

fotocopiar por ambas caras

fotocopiar a color

fotocopiar en blanco y negro

fotocopiar el DNI

fotocopiar un libro

fotocopiar rápidamente

mandar a fotocopiar

terminar de fotocopiar

prohibido fotocopiar

Common Phrases

¿Dónde puedo fotocopiar?

— Asking for the location of a photocopier or copy shop.

Disculpe, ¿dónde puedo fotocopiar estos papeles?

Necesito fotocopiar esto.

— Stating a need to make a copy.

Necesito fotocopiar esto antes de la reunión.

Se fotocopian documentos.

— A common sign indicating that photocopying services are available.

Vi un cartel en la ventana que decía: 'Se fotocopian documentos'.

Fotocopiar por duplicado.

— To make two copies of every original.

Debes fotocopiar el contrato por duplicado.

Ir a fotocopiar.

— The action of going to the machine or shop to copy.

Voy a fotocopiar, ¿necesitas algo?

Fotocopiar en alta resolución.

— To copy with high detail/quality.

Es mejor fotocopiar las fotos en alta resolución.

Fotocopiar con reducción.

— To shrink the size of the original during copying.

Tuve que fotocopiar con reducción para que cupiera en el folio.

Fotocopiar con ampliación.

— To enlarge the size of the original during copying.

Vamos a fotocopiar con ampliación para leer mejor el texto.

Dejar de fotocopiar.

— To stop the action of photocopying.

La máquina dejó de fotocopiar porque se acabó el papel.

Fotocopiar para el archivo.

— To copy something specifically for storage/records.

Siempre hay que fotocopiar las facturas para el archivo.

Often Confused With

fotocopiar vs escanear

Escanear creates a digital file, while fotocopiar creates a physical paper copy.

fotocopiar vs imprimir

Imprimir is from a computer to paper; fotocopiar is from paper to paper.

fotocopiar vs copiar

Copiar is general; fotocopiar is specifically using a photocopier machine.

Idioms & Expressions

"parecer fotocopiado"

— To look exactly like someone else (often used for siblings or twins).

Tu hijo y tú sois iguales, ¡parece fotocopiado!

informal

"ser una fotocopia de"

— To be a carbon copy of something or someone; to lack originality.

Su nuevo libro es una fotocopia de su primera novela.

neutral

"ni que fuera fotocopiado"

— Used to express surprise at how identical two things are.

Hablan igual, ni que fueran fotocopiados.

informal

"fotocopiar ideas"

— To plagiarize or steal someone else's thoughts without modification.

Ese político solo se dedica a fotocopiar ideas de otros países.

informal

"sacar una fotocopia del alma"

— A poetic/dramatic way to say to reveal one's true self or deepest secrets.

En su poesía, el autor intenta sacar una fotocopia del alma.

literary

"fotocopiar el éxito"

— To try to repeat a successful formula exactly as it was done before.

Muchas empresas intentan fotocopiar el éxito de Apple.

business

"estar fotocopiado"

— To be repetitive or monotonous.

Sus discursos siempre están fotocopiados, nunca dice nada nuevo.

informal

"hacer una fotocopia mental"

— To memorize something perfectly by looking at it.

Hice una fotocopia mental del mapa para no perderme.

informal

"vida de fotocopia"

— A life that is boring, repetitive, and lacks individuality.

No quiero una vida de fotocopia, quiero aventuras.

informal

"fotocopiar el pasado"

— To repeat the same mistakes or patterns from the past.

La historia a veces parece fotocopiar el pasado.

philosophical

Easily Confused

fotocopiar vs copia

It can be a noun or a verb form.

La copia is the result; fotocopiar is the action. Él copia means he copies (general), while él fotocopia is specific.

Tengo una copia (noun). Él fotocopia el papel (verb).

fotocopiar vs fotografía

Both start with 'foto'.

Fotografía is a photo taken with a camera; fotocopia is a duplicate of a document.

Saco una fotografía del paisaje, pero voy a fotocopiar el contrato.

fotocopiar vs transcribir

Both involve duplicating text.

Transcribir involves writing out text from one place to another; fotocopiar is mechanical.

Tengo que transcribir el audio, pero voy a fotocopiar el texto.

fotocopiar vs calcar

Both involve copying an image.

Calcar is manual tracing; fotocopiar is automatic and light-based.

El artista calca el diseño, pero el secretario lo va a fotocopiar.

fotocopiar vs duplicar

Synonyms.

Duplicar can apply to anything (keys, files); fotocopiar is only for documents on a machine.

Duplicamos la base de datos, pero fotocopiamos el informe.

Sentence Patterns

Yo + fotocopiar + [documento]

Yo fotocopio el papel.

Necesito + fotocopiar + [documento]

Necesito fotocopiar mi pasaporte.

Si + [imperfect subjunctive] + fotocopiaría

Si tuviera papel, fotocopiaría el libro.

Se + [verb] + fotocopiar

Se recomienda fotocopiar los recibos.

[Gerund] + fotocopiar

Terminé fotocopiando todo el archivo.

La imposibilidad de + fotocopiar

La imposibilidad de fotocopiar el manuscrito nos frustró.

[Pronoun] + voy a + fotocopiar

Lo voy a fotocopiar ahora.

Espero que + [subjunctive fotocopiar]

Espero que fotocopies la factura.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in daily life, especially in professional and academic spheres.

Common Mistakes

Writing 'photocopiar'. → fotocopiar
Spanish always uses 'f' for the /f/ sound, never 'ph'.
Using 'fotocopiar' when you mean 'to scan to email'. → escanear
Fotocopiar implies a physical paper output. Use escanear for digital.
Saying 'fotocopiar de mi carné'. → fotocopiar mi carné
The verb is transitive and does not need the preposition 'de'.
Conjugating it like an irregular verb. → fotocopiamos (not fotocopiamas)
It follows the regular -ar pattern perfectly.
Confusing 'fotocopia' (noun) with 'fotocopio' (verb). → Yo fotocopio (verb) / La fotocopia (noun)
Remember that the 'o' ending is for the first person singular verb form.

Tips

Regularity

Remember that 'fotocopiar' is a regular -ar verb. If you know how to conjugate 'hablar', you know how to conjugate 'fotocopiar'.

The 'F' Rule

Spanish doesn't use 'ph'. Always start with 'f'. Think of 'foto' as in 'photograph' but simplified.

Machine Name

The machine is 'la fotocopiadora'. It's a feminine noun. 'La fotocopiadora está rota' is a very common phrase!

Copy Shops

In Spain, look for a 'copistería'. In Latin America, look for 'fotocopias' signs in small stores or 'locutorios'.

Direct Object

Don't use 'de' after the verb. Say 'fotocopiar el libro', not 'fotocopiar de el libro'.

Stress the End

The stress is on the 'AR'. Say it like 'fo-to-co-py-AR'.

Office Talk

When asking a colleague, '¿Me fotocopias esto?' is more natural than '¿Haces una fotocopia de esto?'.

Paper Saving

Use the phrase 'por las dos caras' to sound like a conscious and advanced speaker.

Toner and Jams

Learn 'tóner' and 'atasco' to describe why you can't fotocopiar something.

Copyright

Notice the 'derechos de autor' signs. Photocopying whole books is usually forbidden in libraries.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'PHOTO' of a 'COPY'. In Spanish, 'PHOTO' is 'FOTO' and 'COPY' is 'COPIAR'. Put them together: FOTO-COPIAR.

Visual Association

Imagine a bright flash of light (FOTO) coming from a machine that produces an identical paper twin (COPIAR) of your document.

Word Web

luz papel tóner máquina duplicar oficina estudiante copia

Challenge

Try to conjugate 'fotocopiar' in the past, present, and future while timing yourself. Can you do it in under 15 seconds?

Word Origin

A compound of the Spanish words 'foto' and 'copiar'. 'Foto' comes from the Greek 'phōs' (light), and 'copiar' comes from the Medieval Latin 'copiare', meaning to transcribe or provide in abundance.

Original meaning: To reproduce a document using a light-based process.

Romance (Spanish) with Greek roots.

Cultural Context

Be aware of copyright laws; in libraries, signs explicitly state what you can and cannot 'fotocopiar'.

English speakers often say 'to make a copy' or 'to Xerox'. In Spanish, using the single verb 'fotocopiar' sounds more natural and professional.

The Spanish TV show 'Camera Café' often features scenes around the office photocopier. Fanzine culture in 1980s Madrid (La Movida) relied heavily on 'fotocopiar'. The 'notario' system in Spain requires millions of 'fotocopias' annually.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Office

¿Dónde está la máquina de fotocopiar?
Se ha acabado el papel de la fotocopiadora.
Necesito fotocopiar este informe por triplicado.
¿Quién sabe cómo fotocopiar a doble cara?

At the University

Voy a la copistería a fotocopiar los apuntes.
¿Me dejas tu libro para fotocopiar un capítulo?
¿Cuánto cuesta fotocopiar una página aquí?
Tengo que fotocopiar el carné de estudiante.

Legal/Administrative

Traiga una fotocopia de su pasaporte.
Hay que fotocopiar el contrato antes de firmarlo.
¿Puede fotocopiarme este certificado?
La fotocopia debe ser legible.

Library

¿Está permitido fotocopiar este manuscrito?
La máquina para fotocopiar está fuera de servicio.
Solo se puede fotocopiar un 10% del libro.
Necesito una tarjeta para fotocopiar.

Home/Personal

Voy a fotocopiar esta receta para mi hermana.
¿Tienes una máquina para fotocopiar en casa?
Quiero fotocopiar mis dibujos antiguos.
Ayúdame a fotocopiar estas cartas.

Conversation Starters

"¿Sabes dónde puedo fotocopiar unos documentos por aquí cerca?"

"¿Prefieres escanear los archivos o fotocopiar los papeles físicos?"

"¿Cuántas copias necesitas que fotocopie para la reunión de mañana?"

"¿Te parece que fotocopiar libros enteros es ético hoy en día?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido un problema con una máquina de fotocopiar?"

Journal Prompts

Describe un día en una oficina donde la máquina de fotocopiar no para de funcionar.

Escribe sobre la importancia de la 'copistería' en la vida de un estudiante universitario.

¿Crees que en el futuro dejaremos de fotocopiar documentos por completo? ¿Por qué?

Relata una situación divertida o frustrante que hayas tenido al intentar fotocopiar algo.

Imagina que eres una máquina de fotocopiar. ¿Qué dirías sobre las personas que te usan a diario?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Se dice 'fotocopiar'. Es un verbo regular que termina en -ar. Ejemplo: 'Necesito fotocopiar este documento'.

Sí, es la palabra estándar y profesional. En contextos informales, la gente suele decir 'sacar copias', pero 'fotocopiar' es correcto en cualquier situación.

'Fotocopiar' se usa cuando ya tienes el papel físico y quieres otro igual. 'Imprimir' se usa cuando tienes un archivo en la computadora y quieres pasarlo a papel.

Yo fotocopio, tú fotocopias, él fotocopia, nosotros fotocopiamos, vosotros fotocopiáis, ellos fotocopian.

En español siempre se escribe con 'f': fotocopiar. El uso de 'ph' es un error común para los hablantes de inglés.

Una copistería es una tienda especializada en fotocopiar documentos, encuadernar y otros servicios relacionados con el papel.

No es lo más preciso. Para 'to scan' se debe usar 'escanear'. Sin embargo, en algunas oficinas se usa indistintamente si la máquina hace ambas cosas.

Es común en algunos países de Latinoamérica de forma muy informal, pero no se recomienda en el ámbito profesional o en España.

Puedes decir: 'Por favor, ¿podría fotocopiar esto por ambas caras?' o 'a doble cara'.

Significa hacer una copia que mantenga los colores del original, en lugar de que sea solo en blanco y negro.