Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
English for Daily LifeEnglish for Social ConnectionEnglish for WorkVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use “on the nose” and other nose expressions for clarity, accuracy, timing, and keen attention.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“As plain as the nose on your face” describes something obvious. “On the nose” can mean exactly accurate or exactly on time. If someone “has a nose for” something, they have a special ability to notice or find it. The source reports one possible explanation for the timing sense, but presents it as an account from word experts rather than a settled origin.
Cultural note: Calling an answer “on the nose” means it is exactly right; calling a scheduled arrival “on the nose” means exactly at the stated time. These uses depend on context. The story’s radio-studio gesture explanation is a reported theory, not a confirmed origin.
Keep exploringA nose can stand for what is plainly visible, precisely correct, right on time, or easy to sniff out.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Point out a fact that is unmistakable.
Meaning
Very obvious or easy to understand.
Tone & use
Informal and emphatic. It can sound impatient if the listener has not noticed the point.
Example
“The muddy footprints made it as plain as the nose on your face that someone had come inside.”
Use one phrase for accuracy and punctuality.
Meaning
Exactly correct or accurate.
Tone & use
Often used to praise a good estimate, guess, or description.
Example
“Your estimate of how long the repairs would take was right on the nose.”
Meaning
At exactly the stated time.
Tone & use
Often follows a time: “The meeting starts at nine on the nose.”
Example
“The doors opened at seven on the nose.”
Describe an ability to find information, clues, or opportunities.
Meaning
Have a natural ability to notice or find a particular kind of thing.
Tone & use
Commonly used for opportunities, news, clues, or useful information.
Example
“The editor has a nose for stories readers will remember.”
Meaning
Discover something that is hidden or difficult to find.
Tone & use
Often suggests close attention or persistence; it can be literal or figurative.
Example
“The reporter sniffed out a mistake in the public records.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3
