informal5K

UK//ˈkɒp.ə//US//ˈkɑː.pɚ//

Meaning of There was a copper

A slang term for a police officer.

In simple words: A person who works in law enforcement, like a police officer.

There was a copper in a sentence

  • When I saw a copper, I felt safe walking home.
  • The copper directed traffic after the accident.
  • A copper stopped by to check on the neighborhood.
  • The kids were excited to see a copper at the fair.
  • Don't get in trouble; the coppers are watching!

How to use There was a copper

Used primarily in casual contexts. Avoid in official or formal discussions about law enforcement.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun phrase

Memory hint

Think of a penny – a 'copper' – and imagine a cop patrolling with coins.

Related words

Collocations with There was a copper

  • call a copper
  • sight a copper
  • a friendly copper
  • copper on duty
  • copper's badge

Synonyms for There was a copper

Common mistakes with There was a copper

  • Confused with 'copper' as a metal.
  • Using 'coppers' in plural form incorrectly when referencing police in a general context.

Compare There was a copper with Cop, Officer

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Frequently asked questions about There was a copper

What does There was a copper mean?

A person who works in law enforcement, like a police officer.

What is the definition of There was a copper?

A slang term for a police officer.

How do you use There was a copper in a sentence?

When I saw a copper, I felt safe walking home.

Can you give another example of There was a copper?

The copper directed traffic after the accident.

What are synonyms for There was a copper?

Common alternatives include cop, officer, lawman, sheriff, constable.

What words go with There was a copper?

It commonly pairs with call a copper, sight a copper, a friendly copper, copper on duty, copper's badge.

What are common mistakes when using There was a copper?

Confused with 'copper' as a metal. Using 'coppers' in plural form incorrectly when referencing police in a general context.

How do you pronounce There was a copper?

US: //ˈkɑː.pɚ//, UK: //ˈkɒp.ə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is There was a copper formal or informal?

"There was a copper" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use There was a copper?

Used primarily in casual contexts. Avoid in official or formal discussions about law enforcement.