on earth

Idioms  

1. Also, in creation ; in the world . Ever, anywhere, of all possible things. These phrases are all used for emphasis in questions or, less often, in a negative context. For example, What on earth is he doing with a spade? or Where in creation did that child go? or How in the world do you expect me to carry all those bags? [Late 1700s]

2. like nothing on earth . Incomparable. For example, That perfume smells like nothing on earth , or Her new hair color is like nothing on earth . [c. 1900]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

on earth

South Korea is one of the most technologically advanced countries on earth, yet where it belongs in global stock indexes has been debated for years.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 20, 2026

Leonardo da Vinci considered the house cat the most perfect creature on earth.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

There are fluorescent lights, sweated-out windows, pizzas stacked like evidence, and the unshakable feeling that every other shopper is experiencing their first day on earth while glitching gently in front of the popsicles.

From Salon ● Jul. 11, 2026

Many of the well-known people who endorse cold-water swimming are professional athletes—people who are, it should be noted, among the most superstitious on earth.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 6, 2026

The people who made their homes within his limits came from some of the hardest, meanest places on earth.

From "Ophie's Ghosts" by Justina Ireland