nose test
English
editEtymology
editSuggesting the identification of something by how it smells.
Pronunciation
editAudio (General Australian): (file)
Noun
editnose test (plural nose tests)
- (idiomatic) An informal method for determining whether something is authentic, credible, or ethical, by using one's common sense or sense of propriety.
- 1991 March 26, Josh Barbanel, “Access Is Money for City Hall Lobbyists”, in New York Times, retrieved 7 Feb. 2009:
- In many cases, said Henry J. Stern, the president of the Citizens Union, a civic group, and a former city Parks Commissioner, "you have to apply the nose test." "Does it smell?" he said, referring to such deals. "Is it based on a personal relationship? Does it run contrary to the city's interest?"
- An inspection of an object using the sense of smell, as for freshness of food.
- 1975 June 30, Bob Bender, “Safety Checklist While Boating”, in St. Petersburg Times, retrieved 7 Feb. 2009:
- Make the "nose test" sniffing for fumes, before starting engines.
- (physiology) An inspection of the nasal passages or a trial of their function, as for breathing difficulties.
- 2004 November 8, Helen Fields, “Rub your nose in it”, in U.S. News & World Report, retrieved 7 Feb. 2009:
- The pollen blocker cream appeared to help; after using the cream, people did better on the nose test.