Not worth the paper it's written on
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
So low in value that it is effectively worthless.
Origin
From 19th-century Britain, tied to notes; 'paper worth' for dud, slang by 1870s in a tale for nix. A 1880s 'Times' uses it for a deal.
Usage Examples
- That contract's not worth the paper it's written on.
- Not worth the paper; pure junk.
- Paper's worth more-deal's trash.
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