Writing Tips
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Xerox, xerox, copy, photocopy
Xerox, written with a capital X, is a trademark; however, the lower case spelling has come to be used casually to refer to any photocopy process.
This informal usage should be avoided in more formal writing. The noun and the verb xerox (with a lower case x) should be replaced by photocopy or copy.
- Photocopy the last page for Debra, and give a copy to Craig as well.
- The deputy minister needs a copy (not a xerox) of this document immediately.
- Informal: Could you xerox that for me?
- Standard: Could you photocopy (or copy) that for me?
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