The spelling of "most paper tiger" follows standard English spelling rules. "Most" is spelled with the letter "o" followed by "s" and "t." "Paper" is spelled with the letter "a" followed by "p" and "e." "Tiger" is spelled with the letters "t," "i," "g," "e," and "r." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /məʊst/ /ˈpeɪpə/ /ˈtaɪɡə/. "Most" is pronounced with a long "o" sound /əʊ/, "paper" with a short "a" sound /ˈpeɪpə/, and "tiger" with a long "i" sound /ˈtaɪɡə/.
The phrase "most paper tiger" is not a term found in dictionaries, as it appears to be a combination of two idiomatic expressions: "paper tiger" and "most." However, we can provide a definition by understanding the meanings of these individual elements.
The term "paper tiger" originated from a Chinese phrase, "zhilaohu," and refers to something or someone that appears powerful or threatening on the surface but is actually weak, ineffectual, or lacking substance when challenged. It suggests that the entity in question is only assertive in words or appearance, but lacks real power or strength. Paper tigers often rely on bluster or intimidation to deceive others.
Meanwhile, the word "most" is an adjective used to indicate the greatest amount or degree of something. For example, "the most beautiful," "the most intelligent," or "the most successful."
Combining both elements, "most paper tiger" can be understood as describing an entity that displays the highest degree of being a paper tiger. It suggests that the subject has an exceptionally illusory or deceptive appearance of power or strength. While it may exhibit the characteristics of a paper tiger to a significant extent, the addition of "most" emphasizes that it goes even beyond typical instances. This phrase conveys a heightened sense of hollowness or potential vulnerability compared to other entities usually referred to as paper tigers.