Not worth the paper it’s written/printed on
idiom
Something that has no value or importance.
The contract seems like it's not worth the paper it's written on.
Often appears as...
- agreement not worth the paper it's written on
- promise not worth the paper it's printed on
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
idiom
Something that has no value or importance.
The contract seems like it's not worth the paper it's written on.
Often appears as...
- agreement not worth the paper it's written on
- promise not worth the paper it's printed on
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Lack of Credibility
Used to express that a document or statement is not trustworthy or reliable.
Their guarantee turned out to be not worth the paper it's printed on.
Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Expression
It's an exaggerated way of saying something is completely useless or ineffective.
His vows of loyalty were not worth the paper they were written on.
Pro Tip 3/3Legal Disputes
Often invoked when formal agreements or contracts fail to hold up in practice or law.
The non-compete clause is not worth the paper it's printed on.
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