Definition

Noun: A printed or online directory, or a distinct section within a directory, that lists businesses and professional services alphabetically by their category or field, typically featuring classified advertisements. Historically, these directories were printed on yellow paper to distinguish them from the white pages listing residential telephone numbers.

Usage

The term "Yellow Pages" functions as a proper noun and is typically used with the definite article "the" or as part of a compound noun. It refers to the directory itself as a resource for finding commercial information. * You can find a plumber in the Yellow Pages. * I checked the Yellow Pages for a list of local restaurants. * The advertisement will appear in the Yellow Pages.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Before the internet, people relied on the Yellow Pages to find services like electricians or pizza delivery.
  • The company bought a large ad in the Yellow Pages to attract more customers.
  • Many Yellow Pages directories are now published online as well as in print.

Advanced Usage

• "to be in the Yellow Pages": To have one's business listed or advertised in this directory.
  • Make sure your new business is in the Yellow Pages.
• The term can be used metaphorically to refer to any comprehensive, categorized listing of services.
  • This website acts as a Yellow Pages for freelance digital artists.

Variants and Related Words

• White Pages (noun): The section of a telephone directory that lists residential and business telephone numbers alphabetically by surname, traditionally printed on white paper.
• Directory (noun): A book or website listing individuals or organizations alphabetically or thematically with details such as addresses and telephone numbers.
• Classified advertising / Classifieds (noun): Small advertisements grouped in a publication under specific categories.

Synonyms

• Business directory
• Commercial directory
• Trade directory

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Let your fingers do the walking: An advertising slogan historically associated with the Yellow Pages, encouraging people to use the directory (by "walking" their fingers through the pages) to find what they need instead of physically going out to search.
  • Need a taxi? Let your fingers do the walking through the Yellow Pages.

Noun

1. a telephone directory or section of a directory (usually printed on yellow paper) where business products and services are listed alphabetically by field along with classified advertising