A2 Collocation Neutral 4 min read

复制

fùzhì

To copy

Literally: Copy / Duplicate

In 15 Seconds

  • Use `复制` for making any kind of copy.
  • Works for digital, physical, and even style imitation.
  • Avoid if you mean translate or create something new.
  • It's the standard, versatile word for 'copy'.

Meaning

This phrase `复制` is your go-to for making duplicates. It's not just about digital stuff like copying files; you can `复制` a physical object, a recipe, or even someone's style. Think of it as the universal 'make another one' button for almost anything.

Key Examples

3 of 12
1

Texting a friend

这个链接很有意思,我帮你`复制`过来了。

This link is very interesting, I've copied it for you.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
2

At a print shop

我想`复制`这份文件,需要多少钱?

I want to copy this document, how much will it cost?

3

Discussing fashion

我好喜欢她的穿衣风格,想`复制`一下。

I really like her style of dressing, I want to copy it a bit.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

The concept of copying and reproduction has been crucial throughout Chinese history, from replicating ancient texts and artworks to mass-producing goods. The character `复` (fù) means 'again' or 'return', and `制` (zhì) means 'to make' or 'manufacture'. Together, `复制` literally means 'to make again', reflecting a long cultural emphasis on preserving and disseminating knowledge and culture through duplication.

💡

Think 'Duplicate'!

When in doubt, ask yourself: 'Am I making an exact duplicate?' If yes, `复制` is likely your word. It's the universal 'make another one' button.

🎯

Tech vs. General

While `复制` works everywhere, `拷贝` is often used specifically for digital copying (like files or data). `复印` is ONLY for photocopying paper.

In 15 Seconds

  • Use `复制` for making any kind of copy.
  • Works for digital, physical, and even style imitation.
  • Avoid if you mean translate or create something new.
  • It's the standard, versatile word for 'copy'.

What It Means

复制 is the most straightforward way to say 'to copy' in Chinese. It covers a wide range of duplication tasks. You can 复制 a document, a photo, or even a digital file. It's a versatile verb that fits many situations. Don't overthink it; it's pretty much the same as English 'copy'.

How To Use It

Use 复制 when you want to create an exact replica of something. It works for both physical and digital items. The structure is usually Subject + 复制 + Object. For example, 'I want to copy this book' becomes '我想复制这本书'. It's a standard verb that fits easily into sentences. You'll hear it a lot in everyday conversations. It's not complicated, so dive right in!

Real-Life Examples

  • You're at the library. You need a copy of a page. You ask, 'Can I 复制 this page?'
  • Your friend sends you a funny meme. You want to share it. You say, 'I'll 复制 this and send it to others.'
  • A designer shows you a cool outfit. You like it. You might say, 'I want to 复制 this style.'
  • You're working on your computer. You need to duplicate a file. You use the 复制 command.
  • A chef shares a secret recipe. You want to try it. You ask to 复制 the recipe.

When To Use It

Use 复制 for any situation where you're making an exact duplicate. This includes digital files, printed documents, or even physical objects. If you want to replicate a design or a piece of art, 复制 is the word. It's also perfect for copying text from a website or a message. Think of it as the default 'copy' button. It's super common and widely understood. Use it when you're in doubt!

When NOT To Use It

Avoid 复制 when you mean 'translate' or 'interpret'. 复制 means making an identical copy, not changing the language. Also, don't use it for 'summarize' or 'paraphrase'. Those actions involve changing the content. 复制 is strictly about duplication. It's not for 'inventing' or 'creating something new'. Stick to making exact copies. Don't try to be too creative with this one!

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ I want to 翻译 this sentence. → ✓ I want to 复制 this sentence. (翻译 means translate, 复制 means copy).
  • ✗ He wants to 创造 this style. → ✓ He wants to 复制 this style. (创造 means create, 复制 means copy or imitate).
  • ✗ I will this article again. → ✓ I will 复制 this article. ( means write, 复制 means copy).

Similar Expressions

  • 拷贝 (kǎobèi): This is a direct loanword from English 'copy'. It's very similar to 复制 and often used interchangeably, especially in tech contexts. Think of it as a slightly more modern, techy cousin.
  • 复印 (fùyìn): This specifically means 'to photocopy'. It's used only for paper documents. If you're using a photocopier, this is your word. It's a narrower term than 复制.
  • 仿制 (fǎngzhì): This means to imitate or counterfeit. It often implies making a copy that might be cheaper or less authentic, like a knock-off product. Use this when the copy isn't quite the real deal.

Common Variations

  • 复制品 (fùzhìpǐn): This means a 'reproduction' or 'copy' (noun). It's the result of 复制. For example, 'This is a 复制品 of the painting.'
  • 复制粘贴 (fùzhì zhāntiē): This is the common phrase for 'copy and paste'. It's exactly what it sounds like and used constantly on computers and phones.
  • 复制一下 (fùzhì yīxià): Adding 一下 makes the action sound more casual and brief, like 'just copy this quickly'. It softens the request.

Memory Trick

💡

Imagine a funny zibra copying itself! The fu and zi sounds in 复制 (fùzhì) sound a bit like 'copy'. Picture a zebra doing a silly dance, making an exact copy of itself – a funny zibra copying! It's a bit absurd, but it sticks.

Quick FAQ

  • What's the difference between 复制 and 拷贝? Both mean 'to copy', but 拷贝 is a direct loanword from English and feels more tech-focused. 复制 is more general and can apply to almost anything.
  • Can I 复制 someone's handwriting? Yes, you can 复制 handwriting, meaning to try and imitate it perfectly. It implies skill in duplication.
  • Is 复制 used for copying music or videos? Absolutely! If you're downloading a video or saving a song file, you're essentially 复制 it to your device.

Usage Notes

The phrase `复制` is highly versatile and generally neutral in formality. It's suitable for most contexts, from casual conversations to professional settings. Be mindful not to confuse it with 'translate' (`翻译`) or 'create' (`创造`); `复制` strictly means to duplicate.

💡

Think 'Duplicate'!

When in doubt, ask yourself: 'Am I making an exact duplicate?' If yes, `复制` is likely your word. It's the universal 'make another one' button.

🎯

Tech vs. General

While `复制` works everywhere, `拷贝` is often used specifically for digital copying (like files or data). `复印` is ONLY for photocopying paper.

⚠️

Don't Copy Sensitive Info!

Be careful when copying personal or sensitive information, especially in public. Make sure you're not accidentally sharing something private when you `复制` and paste!

💬

Respect Originality

While `复制` is common, especially in tech and for practical needs, remember that in creative fields like art or writing, originality is highly valued. Be mindful of copyright and attribution when you `复制` others' work.

Examples

12
#1 Texting a friend
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

这个链接很有意思,我帮你`复制`过来了。

This link is very interesting, I've copied it for you.

Here, `复制` is used for copying a digital link, a very common scenario.

#2 At a print shop

我想`复制`这份文件,需要多少钱?

I want to copy this document, how much will it cost?

This is a straightforward use for duplicating a physical document.

#3 Discussing fashion
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

我好喜欢她的穿衣风格,想`复制`一下。

I really like her style of dressing, I want to copy it a bit.

Here, `复制` is used metaphorically to mean imitating or adopting a style.

#4 Instagram caption
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

这幅画太美了!忍不住想`复制`到我的博客里。

This painting is so beautiful! I can't help but want to copy it to my blog.

Used for copying digital content (an image) for personal use.

#5 Sharing a recipe online
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

我从网上`复制`了这个菜谱,分享给大家。

I copied this recipe from the internet and am sharing it with everyone.

Common usage for digital content sharing.

#6 Job interview (Zoom call)
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

我需要`复制`我之前的项目报告给您参考。

I need to copy my previous project report for your reference.

Professional context, referring to copying a digital file.

Mistake: Translating instead of copying Common Mistake

✗ 我想`翻译`这个句子。 → ✓ 我想`复制`这个句子。

✗ I want to translate this sentence. → ✓ I want to copy this sentence.

Confusing `翻译` (translate) with `复制` (copy) is a common error.

Mistake: Creating instead of copying Common Mistake

✗ 他想`创造`这个发型。 → ✓ 他想`复制`这个发型。

✗ He wants to create this hairstyle. → ✓ He wants to copy this hairstyle.

Using `创造` (create) when imitation (`复制`) is intended.

#9 Humorous situation (gaming)
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

这游戏里的装备太帅了,我得`复制`一下别人的搭配!

The gear in this game is so cool, I have to copy someone else's outfit!

Humorous use in gaming, copying a successful strategy or look.

#10 Emotional situation (memorabilia)
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

这是奶奶的字,我好想`复制`一份留作纪念。

This is Grandma's handwriting, I really want to copy a piece to keep as a memento.

Emotional context, wanting to preserve something precious through duplication.

#11 Ordering food via app
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

我把朋友的地址`复制`到我的订单里了。

I copied my friend's address into my order.

Practical, everyday use in modern apps.

#12 Saving a Netflix subtitle
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

这段台词太经典了,我得`复制`下来。

This line of dialogue is too classic, I have to copy it down.

Copying text from digital media.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

`复制` means 'to copy', which fits the context of duplicating a document.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.

Which sentence correctly uses `复制`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我想`复制`这个信息。

`复制` is used for copying digital information like text messages or links.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

The learner confused `翻译` (translate) with `复制` (copy). The context implies making a duplicate of the report, not translating it.

Translate the sentence into Chinese.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This translates 'copy' directly using `复制` for a digital item.

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

`复制` (copy) is the correct action before pasting a link.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`创造` means 'to create', but here the intention is to imitate or copy the style, so `复制` is correct.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

The standard sentence structure is Subject + Verb + Object. 'I want to copy this.'

Translate the sentence into Chinese.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This demonstrates `复制` in a technical software context.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.

Which sentence is the most natural use of `复制`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你可以复制这份报告吗?

While 'copying someone's idea' or 'hairstyle' is possible, copying a report is a very standard and unambiguous use.

Match the Chinese phrase with its closest English meaning.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

These pairs show common collocations and derived nouns related to `复制`.

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

The instruction 'write your own' implies that copying the article is forbidden.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This sentence expresses the desire to imitate a particular style.

🎉 Score: /12

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Spectrum for `复制`

Very Informal

Casual chat, texting friends, slang contexts.

嘿,把那个表情包`复制`给我!

Neutral (Most Common)

Everyday conversations, instructions, general use.

我想`复制`这份文件。

Slightly Formal

Professional emails, official instructions.

请将此报告`复制`并存档。

Very Formal

Rarely used in very formal settings; other verbs preferred.

(通常不在此语境下使用)

Situations Where You'll Use `复制`

`复制` (To Copy)
💻

Digital Files

复制粘贴文件。

📱

Text Messages

复制链接分享。

📄

Documents

复印店复制报告。

👗

Imitating Style

复制偶像的穿搭。

🍜

Recipes/Instructions

复制食谱。

🧑‍💻

Code Snippets

复制代码。

`复制` vs. Similar Words

`复制` (General Copy)
复制文件 Copy files
复制风格 Copy style
`复印` (Photocopy)
复印报告 Photocopy report
复印身份证 Photocopy ID card
`拷贝` (Tech Copy)
拷贝数据 Copy data
拷贝视频 Copy video
`仿制` (Imitate/Counterfeit)
仿制药 Counterfeit medicine
仿制名牌 Imitate famous brands

Usage Categories for `复制`

🖱️

Digital Actions

  • Copy-paste
  • Duplicate file
  • Save content
🖨️

Physical Duplication

  • Photocopy document
  • Duplicate object
🎭

Imitation/Emulation

  • Copy style
  • Mimic behavior
  • Reproduce design
➡️

Information Transfer

  • Copy link
  • Copy text
  • Copy address

Practice Bank

12 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank beginner

你能帮我___这份文件吗?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

`复制` means 'to copy', which fits the context of duplicating a document.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly. Choose beginner

Which sentence correctly uses `复制`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我想`复制`这个信息。

`复制` is used for copying digital information like text messages or links.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

我需要`翻译`这个报告给我的老板。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我需要`复制`这个报告给我的老板。

The learner confused `翻译` (translate) with `复制` (copy). The context implies making a duplicate of the report, not translating it.

Translate the sentence into Chinese. Translate intermediate

Can you copy this picture for me?

Hints: Use 'copy' for `复制`., Picture is `图片`.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你能帮我复制这张图片吗?

This translates 'copy' directly using `复制` for a digital item.

Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank intermediate

请把这个链接___到聊天窗口。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

`复制` (copy) is the correct action before pasting a link.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

她想`创造`她的偶像的风格。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 她想`复制`她的偶像的风格。

`创造` means 'to create', but here the intention is to imitate or copy the style, so `复制` is correct.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Reorder advanced

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我想复制这个。

The standard sentence structure is Subject + Verb + Object. 'I want to copy this.'

Translate the sentence into Chinese. Translate advanced

This software allows you to copy files easily.

Hints: Software is `软件`., Easily is `轻松地`.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 这个软件可以让你轻松地复制文件。

This demonstrates `复制` in a technical software context.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly. Choose advanced

Which sentence is the most natural use of `复制`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你可以复制这份报告吗?

While 'copying someone's idea' or 'hairstyle' is possible, copying a report is a very standard and unambiguous use.

Match the Chinese phrase with its closest English meaning. Match advanced

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

These pairs show common collocations and derived nouns related to `复制`.

Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank advanced

请不要___我的文章,要写你自己的。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 复制

The instruction 'write your own' implies that copying the article is forbidden.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Reorder advanced

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我想复制这个风格。

This sentence expresses the desire to imitate a particular style.

🎉 Score: /12

Frequently Asked Questions

20 questions

复制 fundamentally means to make an identical copy of something. This applies broadly, from duplicating digital files on your computer to making a photocopy of a document or even imitating someone's style or behavior.

No, not at all! While it's extremely common for digital actions like copying text or files, 复制 can also refer to duplicating physical objects or imitating non-digital things like handwriting or artistic styles.

Yes, in a way! You can 复制 someone's style, their way of speaking, or even their actions if you're trying to imitate them. It implies making a close replica of their behavior or appearance, not literally copying the person.

复制 is the more general and traditional term for 'copy'. 拷贝 is a loanword from English ('copy') and often feels more specific to technology, like copying data or files. You can often use them interchangeably, but 复制 is safer in more contexts.

复制 is the general term for copying anything. 复印 specifically means 'to photocopy' and is used only when referring to making copies of paper documents using a photocopier.

复制 is generally considered neutral. It's perfectly acceptable in most everyday conversations, professional settings, and even casual chats. You won't sound overly formal or too casual using it.

Absolutely! If you need to tell a colleague to copy a file or duplicate a report, 复制 is the appropriate word. For instance, '请将此文件复制一份给我' (Please copy this file for me) is perfectly fine.

While 复制 itself is neutral, you can make requests sound more informal by adding particles like 一下 (yīxià), making it 复制一下, which means 'copy this quickly' or 'just copy this'. This softens the tone considerably.

复制粘贴 (fùzhì zhāntiē) is the direct Chinese equivalent of 'copy and paste'. It refers to the common computer action of selecting content, copying it to the clipboard, and then pasting it elsewhere.

Generally, no. While a counterfeit is a copy, 复制 usually implies making a legitimate duplicate. For counterfeiting or making knock-offs, words like 仿制 (fǎngzhì) or 假冒 (jiǎmào) are more appropriate.

Historically, China has a rich tradition of replicating important texts, art, and crafts to preserve and disseminate culture. The concept of 复制 reflects this long-standing practice of making faithful reproductions, whether for scholarly, artistic, or practical purposes.

Yes, you can use 复制品 (fùzhìpǐn) to refer to a copy or reproduction as a noun. For example, '这是那幅名画的复制品' (This is a reproduction of that famous painting).

If you use 翻译 (fānyì) when you mean 复制 (fùzhì), people will be confused. 翻译 means 'to translate', so saying 'I want to translate this sentence' when you actually want to copy it verbatim will lead to misunderstanding. Always choose the verb that matches the action!

Yes, you can 复制 audio files or music. If you're downloading a song or saving a sound clip, you are performing the action of 复制.

复制 aims for an exact replica, often for legitimate purposes. 仿制 (fǎngzhì) implies imitation, often with the connotation of being a cheaper version, a knock-off, or a counterfeit, like a fake designer bag.

You can say: '请帮我复制一下这个' (Qǐng bāng wǒ fùzhì yīxià zhège - Please help me copy this). Adding 一下 makes the request sound polite and casual.

Definitely! In gaming, you might 复制 a character build, a strategy, or even in-game items if the game mechanics allow it. It's a common term in online gaming communities.

If you copy something and then plan to modify it, you'd first 复制 it, and then you might 修改 (xiūgǎi - modify) or 编辑 (biānjí - edit) the copy. 复制 itself just means making the duplicate.

Yes, absolutely. Programmers frequently 复制 code snippets from online resources or between files. It's a fundamental action in software development.

Not necessarily. 复制 simply describes the action of making a copy. Whether you have permission to do so depends on the context and copyright laws, not the verb itself.

Related Phrases

🔄

拷贝

synonym

To copy (loanword, often tech-related)

Both `拷贝` and `复制` mean 'to copy', but `拷贝` is a loanword from English and feels more modern and tech-specific.

🔗

复印

related topic

To photocopy (paper documents)

`复印` is a specific type of copying that deals exclusively with paper documents using a machine, whereas `复制` is broader.

🔗

仿制

related topic

To imitate, counterfeit, or reproduce (often implies non-original)

While `复制` means making an identical copy, `仿制` suggests imitation, often with a nuance of being a cheaper or less authentic version.

🔗

复制粘贴

related topic

Copy and paste

This is a common compound phrase that combines the action of `复制` (copy) with `粘贴` (paste) for digital content.

🔗

模仿

related topic

To imitate or mimic (behavior, style)

While `复制` can be used for imitating style, `模仿` is more commonly used for mimicking actions, speech patterns, or behavior.

🔗

转载

related topic

To reprint or reproduce (articles, content online)

`转载` specifically refers to reproducing published content, like articles or blog posts, often with attribution, which is a form of copying.

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