Definition

Adjective: - Extremely thin; having minimal thickness or substance, comparable to that of a sheet of paper. This describes a physical object that is remarkably thin and often delicate. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something insubstantial, weak, or fragile, such as an argument or a pretense.

Usage and Examples

The adjective paper thin is typically used before a noun or after a linking verb like "was," "is," or "seems."

• Physical Thinness:

  • The ancient parchment was paper thin and threatened to tear.
  • She applied a paper-thin slice of cucumber to her face.
  • The walls in the apartment are paper thin; we can hear every conversation.

• Metaphorical Insufficiency:

  • His alibi was paper thin and did not convince the police.
  • The company's profits were supported by a paper-thin margin.
  • A paper-thin smile hid her disappointment.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• Hyphenation: The term is often hyphenated (paper-thin) when used directly before a noun (as a compound modifier). It is commonly written without a hyphen when it follows a verb.
• Figurative Use: The metaphorical use is very common, emphasizing a lack of robustness, depth, or credibility. It suggests something is so weak it could easily be torn apart or disproven.

Variants and Related Words

• Tissue-thin (adj): Similar in meaning, emphasizing extreme thinness and fragility.
• Flimsy (adj): Lacking solidity or strength; easily damaged. While similar, "flimsy" is broader and doesn't specifically evoke the comparison to paper.
• Gossamer (adj): Very light, thin, and insubstantial, like a spider's web. More poetic than "paper thin."

Synonyms

• Razor-thin
• Wafer-thin
• Diaphanous (especially for fabrics)
• Fragile
• Insubstantial (for metaphorical use)

Antonyms

• Thick
• Substantial
• Sturdy
• Robust
• Solid

Idioms and Common Phrases

While "paper thin" itself functions as a descriptive adjective, it is central to expressions describing vulnerability or lack of substance. - To have a paper-thin [something]: To possess a very weak version of something (e.g., a paper-thin argument, a paper-thin lead). - Paper-thin disguise/pretense: A disguise or act that is very easy to see through.

Adjective

1. thin as paper
   • her blouse was paper thin