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

By matching permits to investor owners, The Times found that plans are on file for two-thirds of their parcels, 50% higher than the overall rate for Altadena.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

The jury could not reach a verdict on the assault charge and the Crown Prosecution Service did not seek a retrial, so the count was allowed to lie on file.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

When he called, he said, the representative didn’t have anything on file about the update, so he completed a new form.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

In addition, the account allows you to review the information the agency has on file, including your earnings history and addresses.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

With Americans, he matched the faces of the dead with photos on file.

From "Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War" by Steve Sheinkin

Related Words

• documented
• listed
• registered
• reported
• taped