On the drawing board

Meaning

The idiom "on the drawing board" means that something is being planned or considered for future implementation. It suggests that the idea is still in its initial stages of development, and may not yet be finalized or fully formed.

Usage

• The new product is currently on the drawing board at our research and development department.
• We're considering implementing a new employee training program, but it's still on the drawing board.
• The architectural plans for the new building are still on the drawing board, waiting for final approval from city officials.
• Our company is thinking about expanding into new markets, but nothing has been decided yet - it's all still on the drawing board.
• The director of the film wanted to include a scene with a dramatic chase sequence, but it hasn't been added to the movie yet because it's still on the drawing board.

Roots and History

The idiom "on the drawing board" dates back to at least the early 20th century. The phrase is often used in reference to architectural plans or other blueprints that are being drafted by a designer. Over time, the phrase has been adapted to refer to any planning or decision-making process, regardless of the field or industry involved.

Synonyms in English

• In the works
• Under consideration
• On the docket
• In development
• In progress

Synonyms in other languages

• En construction - French
• Aan het slotten - Dutch
• 創意中專案 - Mandarin (Chinese)
• 辛暮筆記 - Japanese
• מולדתים - Hebrew

Similar Idioms

• one stop shop

• on the blink

• on one’s uppers