on paper

1. 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]

Example Sentences

Their batters, for example, dismantled what is, on paper, a high-quality bowling attack, with each member of the top four scoring valuable runs.

From BBC

Bolsonaro insisted on paper ballots only for the election, and suggested he would reject any result without them.

From BBC

Zelensky said he expected a framework for security guarantees to be set out on paper as soon as this week.

From BBC

The Wallaroos, ranked seventh in the world, on paper will be the toughest pool game for the Red Roses, who will likely have their stars return to the starting XV.

From BBC

It was so good on paper but a blank from captain Erling Haaland - and Cole Palmer not even playing - gave the Free Hit team 48 points.

From BBC