fine print

American  

[fahyn] / faɪn /

noun

1. printed matter in small-sized type.

2. the detailed wording of a contract, lease, insurance policy, or the like, often set in type smaller than the main body of the document and including general restrictions or qualifications that could be considered disadvantageous.

   Make sure you read the fine print before signing.

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fine print British  

noun

1. Also called: small print.  matter set in small type, as in a contract, esp considered as containing unfavourable conditions that the signer might overlook

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Other Word Forms

• fine-print
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of fine print

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

fine print

However, the fine print means little to fans who are out thousands in non-refundable travel.

From BBC ● Jul. 2, 2026

When such a product enters the conversation, the fine print matters.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 17, 2026

And when you read the fine print on the slate mailer, which advises voters to “take Congresswoman Maxine Waters’ recommendations with you to vote,” it only raises more questions.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 29, 2026

The worry is the fine print on Iran’s nuclear program, the resolution of which would await 60 days of talks.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 28, 2026

“It’s a golden opportunity!” she said, and inked her name without reading the fine print.

From "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina