hard copy

Paper-based version

Hard copy is a printed version of a document, as opposed to one stored electronically.

The term emerged with computers—before digital files, all copies were hard copies and needed no special name.

Can you send me a hard copy of the contract?

I prefer reading hard copy to staring at a screen.

physical

paper

Pressed pulp for writing

documentWritten or electronic file
printoutPhysical copy from device
manuscriptOriginal text before publication

hardcopy · tangible · printed · paper trail · documentation · certificate · report · letterhead · memo · form

reproduction

photocopy

Machine-made paper duplicate

xeroxDuplicate via machine
duplicationMaking an identical copy
reproductionCopying or procreation

facsimile · replica · mimeograph · reprography · scanner · collate · toner · inkjet · laser printing · offset

archive

records

Stored data or albums

repositoryPlace for storing things
filingStoring documents systematically
storageSpace for keeping goods

files · catalog · register · index · inventory · dossier · ledger · filing cabinet · folder · binder

publication

book

Bound written work

volumeAmount of space filled
editionSingle published version
paperbackBook with flexible cover

hardcover · tome · journal · magazine · periodical · newspaper · pamphlet · brochure · leaflet · booklet

Categories

records managementrecordkeeping, record keeping, document management, data retention, file management
copiesphotocopy, duplicate, xerox, facsimile, replica
filingfile, filing cabinets, filing cabinet, files, filing systems

Opposites

physical vs. digital format

hard copysoft copy

Electronic version of document

digital copy · digital version · e-document · PDF · digital format

permanence and fixity

hard copydraft

Preliminary version of text

Family

hard, copy, harden, copying, copied, copycat, copier, hardiness, copybook

Familiarity: Top 50,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G