copy / specimen
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copy
A single item or individual copy from a set of similar things, especially books, magazines, or works of art.
Ich habe mir ein vom Autor signiertes Exemplar des Romans gekauft.
I bought a copy of the novel signed by the author.
specimen
An individual animal, plant, or object as a typical representative of its species or category, often in a scientific context.
Der Biologe entdeckte ein bisher unbekanntes Exemplar einer Tiefseequalle.
The biologist discovered a previously unknown specimen of a deep-sea jellyfish.
character
Colloquially, often slightly derogatory or ironic, for a person with striking characteristics.
Dein Freund ist ja wirklich ein seltenes Exemplar, so jemanden trifft man nicht oft.
Your friend really is a rare character; you don't meet someone like that often.
'Das Exemplar' (copy/specimen) is a loanword from Latin. This explains its often slightly formal or scientific sound, especially compared with more everyday words.
Von diesem Manuskript existiert nur noch ein einziges Exemplar.
Only one single copy of this manuscript still exists.
The context reveals the meaning: if it is about books or newspapers, a copy is meant. In connection with animals or plants in science, an individual or specimen is meant. If it refers to a person, it is colloquial and often ironic.
Ich suche noch ein Exemplar dieser seltenen Briefmarke.
I'm still looking for a copy of this rare stamp.
When 'Exemplar' (character/specimen) is used for a person, it is always colloquial and has a particular tone. It can be admiring ('Prachtexemplar' — fine specimen), but it is often slightly mocking and emphasizes that the person is unusual.
Er ist wirklich ein seltsames Exemplar, aber irgendwie sympathisch.
He really is a strange character, but somehow likable.
book
When referring to a specific object, Buch and Exemplar can refer to the same publication. Buch refers to the book as an object or to its content, while Exemplar always refers to a single copy among several identical books. Use Exemplar when the individual copy or its number is important.
Ich bestelle noch ein Exemplar dieses Buches für meine Schwester.
I'll order another copy of this book for my sister.
Das Buch liegt seit gestern auf meinem Schreibtisch.
The book has been lying on my desk since yesterday.
