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

Bottle bio: Another sparkling white from the Russian River Valley, it features notes of tropical fruit, lychee and green apple on the nose.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 3, 2026

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

The choice of “Psycho Killer” is purposefully on the nose, and nothing onscreen gives an inkling of awkwardness.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 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

The rubber band snapped and sailed through the air, hitting Clem squarely on the nose.

From "The World According to Humphrey" by Betty G. Birney