CC — Carbon Copy

Last updated: 2026-02-02

In plain English

CC means adding someone to an email so they receive a copy of the message.

CC is used to keep someone informed without directly involving them.
They’re not expected to act — just to be aware.

In theory.

What they actually mean

CC is passive power.

Sometimes it’s helpful.
Sometimes it’s a warning shot.

Adding someone in CC often means
“I want you to see this — and I want them to know you saw it.”

Example

“I’ve CC’d the Manager so they’re aware of the situation and the current priority.”

Does it actually matter?

Yes — socially.
CC changes the tone of a conversation instantly.

✅ Used well, it adds transparency.
⚠️ Used poorly, it adds pressure and politics.


Was this useful?
This helps us prioritize which terms to improve.
0 yes · 0 no
Report an error

Found something wrong or misleading? Let us know — we want this site to stay fact-based (even when we joke).