copy editing
nounPronunciation: /ˈkɒpi ˈɛdɪtɪŋ/
Also written as: CE
The editorial process of reviewing and correcting scientific manuscripts for grammar, style, clarity, and consistency while preserving technical accuracy.
Full Definition
Copy editing in abiotic stress research publishing involves the systematic review and improvement of scientific manuscripts to ensure linguistic accuracy, stylistic consistency, and clarity of communication. This process includes correcting grammatical errors, standardizing terminology, improving sentence structure, and ensuring adherence to journal style guidelines. Copy editors must possess both language expertise and sufficient scientific knowledge to maintain technical accuracy while enhancing readability. The process is particularly crucial for international authors and complex technical content typical of stress physiology research.
Plain English
The process of checking and fixing grammar, spelling, and writing style in scientific articles to make them clear and easy to read without changing their meaning.
In Editorial Context
A critical production stage where manuscripts undergo line-by-line review for language quality, involving collaboration between copy editors and authors to resolve queries while maintaining publication timelines and quality standards.
Etymology & History
Emerged with the professionalization of publishing industry and standardization of editorial workflows in scientific journals.
Originally focused on print preparation, now encompasses digital publishing requirements and international author support.
Usage
"The manuscript will undergo copy editing after peer review acceptance, with authors expected to respond to copy editing queries within five business days to maintain publication schedules."
Usage note: Distinguished from proofreading (final error checking) and substantive editing (content restructuring).
Context: scientific publishing, editorial workflows, manuscript production, journal operations
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Often confused with proofreading, but copy editing is more comprehensive and occurs earlier in the production process.