paper trail
/ˈpeɪpər ˈtreɪl/ · pa·per·trail
noun
- A written record, history, or collection of evidence Keep a good paper trail in case anyone asks you why you arrived at that conclusion.
- Records left by a person or organization in the course of activities The company's paper trail revealed a pattern of unethical business practices.
Did you know? The term 'paper trail' has become increasingly relevant in the digital age, as electronic records and digital evidence have become more prevalent, and the phrase is often used to emphasize the importance of maintaining a clear and transparent record of activities, whether physical or digital.