It's a concise way to confirm receipt and understanding of a message, instruction, or order. You'll often hear it used in conjunction with a message, like this:
* "Roger that, over." (Meaning: "I've received and understood your message.")
* "Copy, out." (Meaning: "I've received and understood your message, and I'm ending the transmission.")
Here's why "copy" is used in the military:
* Clarity: It avoids ambiguity and ensures the sender knows the message was received.
* Efficiency: It's a quick and efficient way to communicate understanding, especially in high-pressure situations.
* Security: It reduces the need for lengthy confirmations and potential for misunderstanding.
While "copy" is often used in the military, it's also becoming more common in other professional settings where clear and concise communication is crucial.