on paper

Idioms  

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]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

on paper

Albuquerque’s husband, writer Carey Peck, who has known Wolfe since high school, said of the gallerist’s eclectic circle: “Those worlds don’t go together on paper, but Ernie made the relationships, and he made that happen.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 22, 2026

But what makes sense on paper can also overlook the effect on morale and, eventually, productivity.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 17, 2026

Put your income and expenses on paper, and give yourself a five-year stress test.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 16, 2026

It looked great on paper, and seemed to be a strong fit given his previous work in engineering.

From BBC ● Sep. 2, 2026

Even though we couldn’t afford a piano, my keyboard was on paper on my dining room table.

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals