Search
Select the dictionary language
on paper
01
theoretically rather than practically
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "on paper" and when to use it?
The phrase "on paper" is an idiom used to indicate that something appears to be a certain way when examined theoretically or in a written or planned form. The origin of this phrase is not precisely documented, but it is rooted in the idea that written documents or plans can outline an ideal scenario or concept.
Examples
On paper, the plan looks perfect, but it may fail in practice.
02
as written or printed
