On the Nose Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 4, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The idiomatic expression “On The Nose” is a common phrase that many people use in everyday conversation. In this reference, you will learn its meaning, see examples of how it’s used, and discover other ways to express the same idea. Engage with the content to enhance your understanding of this popular idiom.

On The Nose Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “on the nose” means something is exactly right, precise, or accurate, often used when someone is spot-on with a guess, time, or description. It suggests that something hits the target perfectly without any deviation.
On The NosePin
On The Nose – Created by 7ESL

On The Nose Meaning

The phrase “on the nose” means exactly right or precisely accurate. It is often used to indicate that something meets expectations perfectly, whether referring to timing, accuracy, or detail.

Examples:

  • “Her estimate of the project timeline was on the nose; we finished exactly when she predicted.”
  • “The flavor of this dish is on the nose; it tastes exactly like I remember.”

Origin of This Idiom

There are two possible origins of this phrase. One possible origin is the sport of boxing where it was considered ideal for opponents to aim for the nose as a target to focus on to deliver their blows. The second possible origin comes from the industry of radio broadcasting where it is said that on-air broadcasters would point to their nose to indicate to others in the booth that the show was running right on time.

Usage of “On The Nose”

  • Referring to time:

“The meeting started at 9:00 a.m. on the nose.”

  • Describing accuracy in guessing:

“You were on the nose with your estimate of how much the project would cost.”

  • In a conversation about precise descriptions:

“Your explanation of the situation was on the nose—exactly how I would’ve described it.”

  • Talking about perfect execution:

“The comedian’s timing was on the nose, making the jokes even funnier.”

Related Terms to “On The Nose”

  • Exact – precise or accurate in detail.
  • Spot on – perfectly accurate or correct.
  • Right on the money – exactly correct or accurate.
  • Dead on – precisely correct or accurate.
  • Bulls-eye – hitting the target exactly; perfect accuracy.
  • To the letter – following instructions or details very precisely.
  • In line with – consistent or in agreement with something.
  • On target – aiming correctly or achieving an intended result.
  • Pinpoint – to identify with great precision or accuracy.
  • Accurate – free from mistakes or errors; correct.

Other Ways to Say “On The Nose”

Like most idioms, there are literal ways to convey the same meaning of this figurative speech. Some other ways you can outright say “on the nose” include he/she was on target, he/she was on point, he/she was very accurate and he/she was very punctual.

List of “On The Nose” synonyms:

  • Precisely
  • Exact
  • On the button
  • Accurate
  • Correct
  • On target
  • Right

“On The Nose” Examples

Examples in Statements

A news reporter reporting on a local story.

  • “The neighbors hit it right on the nose when they predicted the old pipes would burst if they weren’t replaced and now we are standing in flooded streets.”

A wide receiver discussing the impressive throw the quarterback just made.

  • “His throws are always right on the nose.”

Examples in Conversation

A teacher talking to a student.

  • Teacher: You were almost late today.
  • Student: I know! I arrived right on the nose!

A son talking to his father.

  • Son: So, dad, did you like your Father’s Day present?
  • Father: Are you kidding?! I don’t know how you knew I wanted this very thing, but you hit it right on the nose!
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