丸写し

• Reading: まるうつし
• Romaji: maruutsushi
• Kanji breakdown: 丸 (maru) — whole, complete; 写 (utsu) — copy, transcribe
• Pronunciation: /ma.ɾɯ.ɯ.tsɯ.ɕi/

Meaning

Copying in its entirety; verbatim copying. Reproducing something exactly as-is, often implying plagiarism or mindless replication.

A noun and suru verb combining 丸 (whole/entirely) with 写し (copying). Describes copying something completely without modification, particularly text, homework, or creative works. Usually carries a negative connotation, implying dishonesty (copying homework) or lack of originality. Common in school and academic contexts. Related to 丸暗記 (rote memorisation) in that both use 丸 to mean 'wholesale/entirely.'

Examples

1. 友達の宿題を丸写しするのはよくないことだ。 Copying a friend's homework in its entirety is not okay.
2. ネットの記事を丸写ししてレポートを出すのは禁止されている。 Submitting a report that is a verbatim copy of an online article is prohibited.
3. 手本を丸写しするだけでは書道は上達しない。 Simply copying a model exactly won't improve your calligraphy.

Usage Guide

Context: school, academic integrity, writing, education

Tone: disapproving

Origin & History

From Japanese 丸 (maru, whole/complete) + 写し (utsushi, copying, from 写す 'to copy/transcribe'). Literally 'complete copying,' emphasising that every part is reproduced without alteration or original thought.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Students and young adults

Social background: Universal