copywriting
KOP-ee-ry-ting
/ˈkɒp.iˌraɪ.tɪŋ/
The act or occupation of writing text for the purpose of advertising or other forms of marketing.
Unlike journalism, copywriting is always written with the intent to persuade or sell.
The story behind the word. In the early days of printing, 'copy' referred to the manuscript that was to be reproduced in 'abundance'. Copywriting became a distinct profession in the late 19th century as advertising grew.
Word relationships
- content writing: Content writing is usually for education or entertainment; copywriting is for sales.
Commonly confused with
- copyright: Copyright is a legal protection; copywriting is a writing profession.
Word family
- copywriter (noun): A person who writes copy.
Collocations
- direct-response copywriting
- freelance copywriting
- copywriting skills
Example sentences
- "When I write an advertisement, I don’t want you to tell me that you find it ‘creative.’ I want you to find it so interesting that you buy the product." Advice from a legend.
- "Good copywriting is the difference between a user clicking 'Buy Now' or closing the tab." Modern digital marketing.
Memory hook
You are 'writing' the 'copy' (text) that makes people 'buy'. Words that sell.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'copyright' (the legal right to intellectual property).
Fun facts
- Many famous authors, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Salman Rushdie, started their careers as copywriters.
Related words
Explore more words
persuasion, journalism, persuasive, rhetoric, upsell, subtext
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