on the nose

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]

Example Sentences

Bergman’s production, marred by blasts of jarring folk music between scene transitions, is a little too on the nose.

From Los Angeles Times

A cartoon version of Jenny Schecter come to life, what transpires in her novel is close, if not on the nose, to what takes place around her, buffered by changed names and literary exaggerations.

From Salon

The writing can be a little on the nose, but better a violent story with ideas than one with none.

From Los Angeles Times

But as on the nose as this subplot is, Mr. Garrison’s fiery executive action leaves a bit more open to debate.

From Salon

Their defining feature was a big bump on the nose called a boss.

From BBC