on paper
on paper
1. In a printed, written, or typed document. It's right there on paper that employees caught taking office supplies will be fired immediately. Please send me an email summarizing this conversation. I'd like to have it all on paper should the issue come up in the future.
2. Hypothetically or in theory. It's a good idea on paper, but I don't think it would work in a real-world environment. On paper, these magnets are supposed to be capable of superior adhesion, but I don't believe it.
See also: on, paper
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
on paper
In theory, hypothetically, as in Considering casualties, on paper the Americans won the Vietnam War, or They are a good team on paper but not so in the field. This metaphoric expression contrasts something written down with concrete reality. [Late 1700s]
See also: on, paper
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
on paper
1 in writing. 2 in theory rather than in reality.See also: on, paper
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
on ˈpaper
considering something from what is written down about it, rather than what is actually true in practice; in theory: This idea looks very good on paper, but I’m not sure that it’s very practical.See also: on, paper
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
on paper
1. In writing or print.
2. In theory, as opposed to actual performance or fact: It is a good team on paper, but its members play poorly together.
See also: on, paper
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
- in writing
- in black and white
- the printed word
- crib note
- dead-tree edition
- dead-tree format
- transcribe
- transcribe (something) from (something)
- transcribe from
- the printed page