C1nounformal2K

Copyright

UK /["/ˈkɒpiraɪt/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːpiraɪt/"]/

Definition

if a person or an organization holds the copyright on a piece of writing, music, etc., they are the only people who have the legal right to publish, broadcast, perform it, etc., and other people must ask their permission to use it or any part of it

In simple words: A legal right that protects someone's work or ideas from being used without permission.

Examples

The author holds the copyright to the novel, allowing them to control its reproduction and distribution.
Before using the image, make sure it is not protected by copyright laws.
Many films are subject to copyright, which prevents unauthorized copying.
The company purchased the copyright for the software to secure exclusive rights.
The debate over copyright often centers on balancing creators’ rights with public access.

Usage notes

Use 'copyright' in formal contexts like legal discussions or academic writing. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

Memory hint

Think of 'copy' and 'right' — it's your right to protect your copy of something.

Collocations

have
hold
own
protect something
expire
lapse
infringement
violation
law
in copyright
out of copyright
copyright on
breach of copyright
infringement of copyright
ownership of copyright

Synonyms

intellectual property
exclusive rights
license

Antonyms

public domain
copyleft

Common mistakes

Confusing 'copyright' with 'patent' - they protect different things.
Using 'copyrighted' incorrectly; must apply it to specific works.
Confusing the terms 'copyright' and 'trademark'; they are not the same.