paper over
B2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words
Cover up a problem without really fixing it, like putting wallpaper over a crack.
Literal meaning: To apply wallpaper over a crack or blemish on a wall — the structural problem remains.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To conceal a problem, conflict, or disagreement with a superficial or temporary fix, without addressing the root cause.
"The coalition's joint statement was an attempt to paper over the very real ideological differences between the two parties."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Frequently used in political and business journalism: 'papering over the cracks'. The extended form 'paper over the cracks' is a very common idiom. Implies the underlying problem remains unsolved.
Commonly used with
cracks differences problems divisions disagreements conflicts
Forms
Base
paper over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
papers over
he/she/it
Past simple
papered over
yesterday
Past participle
papered over
have + pp
-ing form
papering over
continuous
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Synonyms
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