Paperbacks Meaning in English

word · lemma: paperback

US

UK

Definition

Paperbacks are books with a soft, flexible cover made of thick paper, usually less expensive and lighter than hardcovers.

Usage & Nuances

Common in both informal and formal settings. 'Paperbacks' are often contrasted with 'hardcovers'. They are popular for travel and everyday reading because they are light and cheap. Phrases: 'bestselling paperbacks', 'a stack of paperbacks'. Not used for magazines or notebooks.

• Spanish: libros de tapa blanda - libros de bolsillo
• Portuguese (BR): livros de bolso - livros de capa mole
• Portuguese (PT): livros de bolso - livros de capa mole
• Chinese (Simplified): 平装书
• Chinese (Traditional): 平裝書
• Hindi: पेपरबैक किताबें
• Arabic: كتب بغلاف ورقي
• Bengali: পেপারব্যাক - পেপার ব্যাক বই
• Russian: мягкие обложки - книги в мягкой обложке
• Japanese: ペーパーバック
• Vietnamese: sách bìa mềm
• Korean: 페이퍼백 - 종이표지 책
• Turkish: ciltsiz kitap - karton kapaklı kitap
• Urdu: پیپر بیک کتابیں
• Indonesian: buku sampul tipis

Example Sentences

I like reading paperbacks on the train.

basic

She bought three paperbacks at the bookstore.

basic

Paperbacks are cheaper than hardcovers.

basic

My suitcase was full of paperbacks after my shopping spree.

natural

Most bestsellers are released as paperbacks a few months after hardcovers.

natural

You can find old paperbacks for just a dollar at yard sales.

natural