a white paper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a white paper" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a document presenting a government policy, proposal, or report. For example: "The government released a white paper outlining their plans for education reform."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

WHITE PAPERS 101 You can find instructions for writing a white paper online.

The New York Times

"Now this is a white paper.

The Guardian

A white paper is expected next month.

The Guardian - Business

In places, the book reads like a white paper.

The New York Times

The government publishes a white paper on reforms.

The Guardian - Business

Late next year, there will be a white paper setting out the government's policies on aviation.

The Economist

This week the government produced a white paper on its ideas for reforming the electricity market.

The Economist

On January 29th it published a white paper on the population.

The Economist

A white paper on local government is due in the summer.

The Economist

That same month, the Justice Department published a "white paper" by Mr. Weidman explaining Firrea's benefits.

The New York Times

On May 26th China's defence ministry released a "white paper" on military strategy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about government policies or proposals, use "a white paper" to refer to official documents released by governmental bodies. For commercial contexts, a white paper refers to a document used to persuade clients or investors.

Common error

Avoid using "a white paper" to describe general reports or articles. This term specifically denotes an authoritative report or proposal, particularly from a government or in a business context. Use other terms like "report", "study", or "analysis" for more general documents.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a white paper" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific type of document, often used to present government policies or business proposals. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a white paper" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to an authoritative report or proposal, particularly from a government or in a business context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its primary function is to inform and persuade, and it's most frequently encountered in news and media and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the formal and authoritative nature of the document you're describing. Consider using alternative phrases like "government report" or "policy document" for greater precision. Always remember the phrase denotes an official document or paper.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a government report

Focuses specifically on reports issued by governments.

an official document

Emphasizes the formal and authoritative nature of the paper.

a policy document

Highlights the policy-related aspect of the paper.

a position paper

Suggests a document that outlines a specific stance or opinion on an issue.

a briefing paper

Implies a concise document providing essential information.

a strategy document

Highlights the strategic planning aspect.

a technical report

Suggests a document focused on technical details and analysis.

a research paper

Implies a document based on original research.

a discussion paper

Suggests a document intended to stimulate discussion and debate.

a proposal document

Highlights the aspect of presenting a proposal.

FAQs

How is "a white paper" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "a white paper" typically refers to a document presenting a government policy, proposal, or report. For example: "The government released "a white paper" outlining their plans for education reform."

What's the difference between "a white paper" and "a green paper"?

A "white paper" usually presents a finalized policy or proposal, while a "green paper" is more often a consultative document, inviting feedback before a policy is finalized. A green paper precedes "a white paper" in the policy-making process.

What can I say instead of "a white paper" in a business context?

In a business setting, you could use alternatives like "an "industry report"", "a "position paper"", or "a "technical report"", depending on the content and purpose of the document.

Is "a white paper" always related to government or politics?

While "a white paper" is often associated with government and policy, it's also used in business and technology to describe in-depth reports or guides. The context usually clarifies whether it refers to a government document or a commercial one.