on the nose

Idioms  

1. Exactly, precisely; especially, at the appointed time or estimated amount. For example, The busload of students arrived at the museum at ten o'clock right on the nose, or He guessed the final score on the nose. This term, like on the button, may come from boxing, where the opponent's nose is a highly desired target. [c. 1930]

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Example Sentences

Chances are, you’ll retire either sooner or later than you plan to, rather than hit that date on the nose.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 29, 2026

Although Sarah Paulson‘s Met Gala look was railed by Cosmopolitan as being “tone deaf,” her commentary on the 1% was very “almost on the nose, but not quite.”

From Salon • May 5, 2026

While historical comparisons and analogies can be overdone, the parallels between Washington in late November 2004 and today can feel a little too on the nose.

From Slate • May 4, 2026

But on Sunday, anyone with an ego got swatted on the nose.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

I could tell by the surprised look on the little mare’s face that it was the first time she had been kissed on the nose by a hound dog.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls