白纸黑字

bái zhǐ hēi zìidiom
written evidence or proof

这份合同白纸黑字写得很清楚。

The terms of this contract are clearly written in black and white.


What It Really Means
Something that is clearly documented or recorded, often used to emphasize the indisputable nature of written evidence.
Literal Meaning
White paper with black characters
Literal Breakdown
白纸white paper+黑字black characters
Mental Image
The contrast between white paper and black characters creates a visual representation of clarity and permanence in written records.
When to Use
In a business meeting, someone might say '这份协议白纸黑字写得很清楚' (This agreement is clearly written in black and white) to emphasize that the terms are indisputable.
Cultural Note
This idiom reflects the Chinese cultural value of written contracts and the importance of clear documentation in formal agreements.
formalinformal

Something that is clearly documented or recorded, often used to emphasize the indisputable nature of written evidence.

他的话白纸黑字写在合同上,不能反悔。

His words are written in black and white in the contract, so he can't back out.

这份证据白纸黑字,足以证明他的罪行。

This evidence is written in black and white, enough to prove his crimes.

This idiom emphasizes the clarity and indisputability of written records, often used in legal or formal contexts.

Related Phrases

白纸黑字写phrase
written in black and white
黑字白纸phrase
written evidence

Pro Tip

Usage Context

This idiom is commonly used in formal or legal contexts to emphasize the importance of written evidence.

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

While it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it is most commonly associated with formal or legal situations.

Word Origin

The idiom combines 'white paper' (白纸) and 'black characters' (黑字), representing the clear and permanent nature of written records in contrast to verbal agreements.

Usage Notes

This idiom is often used to emphasize the importance of written evidence in legal, business, or formal contexts. It can also be used to contrast with verbal promises or agreements.

Word Breakdown

白纸
white paper
root
+
黑字
black characters
root
汉英词典