in black and white
Meaning: Stated explicitly and in writing; absolutely clear and unambiguous.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Category: Daily Life
Origin: The phrase contrasts the visual certainty of written or printed text with the ambiguity of spoken words or colored representations that might be interpreted various ways.
More idioms — Daily Life
- string attached — A hidden condition or requirement that makes something less advantageous than it initiall…
- back up the truck — To make a large purchase by taking advantage of a favorable price.
- haul someone over the coals — To scold or reprimand someone severely for wrongdoing.
- tilt at windmills — To waste effort fighting against imaginary enemies or pursuing hopeless causes.
- welcome to my world — You are now experiencing something unpleasant that the speaker knows well and has dealt w…
- built different — Uniquely talented or operating by a different standard than ordinary people.
More English idioms
- rhyme or reason — Any logical sense or reasonable explanation.
- drop in the bucket — A contribution or action so small it is negligible compared to a massive problem.
- bed of roses — A situation or life that is entirely easy, comfortable, and free from hardship.
- made in the shade — Assured of comfort, success, or an effortless, favorable position.
- blow up in one's face — To fail spectacularly or cause a plan to collapse in an embarrassing way.
- make a fist of — To accomplish something with reasonable competence or success.
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