Copy that vs Got it vs Will do

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Copy that

InformalTop 2,000 (common)

Got it

InformalTop 1,000 (very common)

Will do

Most common: Got it
 Copy thatGot itWill do
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ˈkɒpi θæt//🇺🇸 //ˈkɑpi θæt//🇬🇧 //ɡɒt ɪt//🇺🇸 //ɡɑt ɪt//
MeaningI understand you or I will do that.I understand
ExampleWhen you’re ready, just say 'copy that'.After she explained the plan, I said, 'Got it!'-
RegisterInformalInformal-
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 1,000 (very common)-
Collocationscopy that, over, copy that, roger, copy that, understoodgot it covered, got it right, got it all figured out-
Antonymsignore that, disregard that, neglect that--
Common mistakesUsing in formal contexts., Confusing with 'copy' as a verb., Not responding after saying 'copy that'.Using 'got it' instead of 'have it' in formal contexts., Confusing 'got it' with 'gotcha' in terms of meaning., Not using appropriate responses after saying 'got it'.-
Usage notesUsed to acknowledge understanding in casual conversations, often in radio communication. Avoid in formal writing or speeches.Used in casual conversation to show understanding. Avoid in formal situations or written communication.-

See it in real clips

Copy that
Got it
Will do

Frequently asked questions: Copy that vs Got it vs Will do

What's the difference between Copy that, Got it, and Will do?

Copy that: I understand you or I will do that. Got it: I understand Will do:

Which is more common: Copy that, Got it, and Will do?

Got it is the most common in everyday English.

Can I use Copy that, Got it, and Will do interchangeably?

Not always. Copy that, Got it, and Will do are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

Related comparisons