When combined, 复印 (fùyìn) literally means “to repeat a print” or “to again make an impression.” This perfectly captures the modern concept of photocopying—creating a duplicate print of an original document.
While 复印 (fùyìn) is a modern, functional term, its use highlights a key aspect of daily life in China: the prevalence of the 复印店 (fùyìn diàn), or copy shop. In many Western countries, high-quality printers and copiers are common in homes and nearly universal in offices. In China, while offices are similarly equipped, it's extremely common for individuals and students to rely on small, dedicated copy/print shops, usually clustered around universities and business districts. For a few máo (毛, a tenth of a yuan), you can photocopy your ID, a chapter from a textbook, or print your thesis. This “copy shop culture” means that needing to 复印 something is a very common public errand, not just an in-office task. It also reflects the high importance placed on physical documentation (-jiàn, -件) in Chinese bureaucracy. Applying for a job, a visa, or a university program almost always requires providing a 复印件 (fùyìnjiàn), a photocopy, of your passport, ID card, and diplomas.
复印 (fùyìn) is used constantly in practical, everyday situations. It's a neutral term, appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. The most common structure is a simple verb-object phrase:
You will hear it frequently in these environments:
The most common point of confusion for learners is the difference between 复印 (fùyìn) and 复制 (fùzhì). They both can be translated as “to copy,” but their usage is distinct.
Common Mistake:
In short: if a photocopier (复印机) is involved, use 复印 (fùyìn). For almost everything else, especially digital, use 复制 (fùzhì).