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.