on file

Idioms  

1. In or as if in a record for easy reference. For example, There's no job open right now, but we'll keep your résumé on file. The use of file in the sense of “a collection of papers stored for ready reference” dates from the early 1600s.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

on file

They must sign their mail ballots, and their signature is compared to the one the state has on file to verify their identity.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026

After any change request, get written confirmation that the new designation is on file.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 10, 2026

While the tax putatively applies only to non-primary residences not occupied or leased, there’s no simple way for the city to determine this based on its records on file.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 29, 2026

“I’d often get a call that would say, ‘Hey, we need to be on file with this in less than 24 hours, get whatever resources you need, just make it happen,’” Hilton recalls.

From Salon ● Jul. 15, 2026

I repeat: "I'd like to review the documents on file for building projects that come before the city council."

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Related Words

• documented
• listed
• registered
• reported
• taped