noun
Refers to a duplicate or copy of a document, book, or record. Often used in official or archival contexts.
契約書の副本を保管してください。
Please keep a duplicate of the contract.
この書類の副本が必要です。
I need a copy of this document.
コピー is a more general and casual term for a copy, often used for photocopies or digital copies, while 副本 is more formal and typically refers to an official duplicate or counterpart of a document.
写し is a general term for a copy or transcript, often handwritten or reproduced, whereas 副本 implies a formal duplicate kept for records.
Compound of 副 (ふく, 'secondary, auxiliary') and 本 (ほん, 'book, document'), literally meaning 'secondary document'.