B1noun1K

Printing

UK /["/ˈprɪntɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈprɪntɪŋ/"]/

Definition

the act of producing letters, pictures, patterns, etc. on something by pressing a surface covered with ink (= coloured liquid for printing, drawing, etc.) against it

In simple words: Making copies of text or pictures on paper using a machine.

Examples

  • the invention of printing
  • colour printing
  • a printing business/firm
  • the printing industry/trade
  • production and printing costs
  • They used 108 different printing characters.
  • The book is in its sixth printing.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, often related to technology or publishing. Not appropriate in contexts unrelated to producing text or images, like casual conversation about hobbies.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a printer making a 'print-in' of your documents.

Collocations

  • printing press
  • printing cost
  • printing service
  • digital printing
  • color printing

Synonyms

  • copying
  • publishing
  • producing
  • duplicating

Antonyms

  • deleting
  • erasing

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'print' as a verb in past tense.
  • Using 'printing' instead of 'printout' when referring to the physical copy.
  • Assuming 'printing' refers only to paper copies, not digital formats.