on the stocks

The idiom "on the stocks" originates from shipbuilding, where a ship under construction is placed on a framework called stocks.

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Definition

C1General

(idiomatic, british)In the process of being made, built, or prepared.

Example

The new policy is still on the stocks and will be implemented next year.
Our latest project is on the stocks and should be completed by summer.

C1Construction

(technical, british)Undergoing construction or assembly, often used for large projects like ships.

Example

The new cruise liner is on the stocks and expected to launch in two years.
Several new buildings are on the stocks in the city center.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "on the stocks":

shadow stock on the shelf street stock on the market in the offing in the works on deck on the books on the come out of stock on the hook fish stock on the line in hock