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

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

The directors take a visual essay approach, contrasting Walden Pond and its woods and the rivers Thoreau rowed with sped-up footage of our crazy modern world — which can be a little on the nose.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Red lights are on the nose, of course, to echo Rudolph.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

"We made a snowman - I remember not having a carrot to put on the nose, so we ended up with an apple," she said.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2025

Harry dropped his wand: It hit Mundungus on the nose and shot red sparks into his eyebrows, which ignited.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling