正本 (zhèng běn) — original (of a document); reserved copy (in a library)

Definition

The "official original" copy of a document (contract, certificate) — the version kept on file, distinct from photocopies or drafts. In a library, it refers to a reference copy that must stay on the premises.

noun
original (of a document)reserved copy (in a library)
Measure word ·

Examples

  • 正本
    Zhè fèn hé tong bì xū bǎo liú zhèng běn, bù néng suí biàn gěi rén.
    This contract's original must be kept and not given out casually.
  • 正本
    Tú shū guǎn de zhèng běn bù néng wài jiè, zhǐ néng zài guǎn nèi kàn.
    The library's reserved copy cannot be borrowed out — you can only read it inside the library.
  • 正本
    Qǐng bǎ zhèng běn hé fù yìn jiàn yì qǐ jiāo shàng lái.
    Please submit the original together with the photocopy.

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