The spelling of the term "certified copy" is straightforward, with each word pronounced according to its usual English pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, this is rendered as /ˈsɜː.tɪ.faɪd ˈkɒp.i/. The first word, "certified," is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, with a "sir" sound at the beginning, followed by a "tified" sound. The second word, "copy," is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, with a "caw" sound at the beginning, and a "pee" sound at the end.
A certified copy refers to a duplicate or reproduction of a document that has been verified as a true and accurate representation of the original. This process involves a competent authority examining the original document and determining that the copy is an accurate replication of the content contained within it.
To obtain a certified copy, one must present the original document to an authorized individual or organization, such as a notary public, lawyer, or government office, who has been granted the power to authenticate documents. These authorized parties carefully review the original document and compare it with the copy to ensure they match in terms of content, format, and appearance. Once satisfied with the accuracy of the copy, the authorized individual or organization affixes a stamp, seal, or signature to the copy, certifying its authenticity.
Certified copies are often required in various legal, administrative, and official proceedings. Such documents may include birth certificates, marriage licenses, educational diplomas, wills, property deeds, and court judgments. These certified copies carry the same legal weight as the original document and can be used as evidence or proof of identity, relationship, ownership, or other important legal matters.
The purpose of certifying a copy is to provide assurance to third parties that the reproduced document is an exact replica of the original, eliminating the need for them to access or handle the original document.
The word "certified" originates from the Latin word "certificare", which is a combination of "certus" (meaning "certain") and "facere" (meaning "to make"). In English, it entered the language through the Old French term "certifier". "Copy", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "copia", meaning "abundance" or "plenty". When these two words are combined, "certified copy" refers to a copy of a document that has been officially verified as a true and accurate reproduction of the original.