English Phrase of the Day

on paper

Definitions

English > English
on paper
1. prep. (figuratively) Based on debatable inference; in theory.
Analysis
on
1. adj. In the state of being active, functioning or operating.
2. adj. Performing according to schedule.
Are we still on for tonight?
Is the show still on?
3. adj. (chiefly UK, informal, usually negative) Acceptable, appropriate.
paper
1. n. A sheet material used for writing on or printing on (or as a non-waterproof container), usually made by draining cellulose fibres from a suspension in water.
2. n. A newspaper or anything used as such (such as a newsletter or listing magazine).
3. n. Wallpaper.
4. n. Wrapping paper.
5. n. (rock paper scissors) An open hand (a handshape resembling a sheet of paper), that beats rock and loses to scissors. It loses to lizard and beats Spock in rock-paper-scissors-lizard-Spock.

Call me old-fashioned, but I only believe something when I see it on paper.

I just dabble, get some thoughts down on paper.

On paper, it was a straightforward application to build two chimneys at a rubber factory.

It ain't on paper, the boss is likely to kick it back down the hopper.

However, discrepancies between the agreement on paper and in practice were quickly redressed.

Subscribe to Phrase of the Day

Email: