sniff out

British  

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to detect through shrewdness or instinct

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sniff out Idioms  

1. Uncover, as If there's anything to that rumor, Gladys will sniff it out. This expression alludes to an animal sniffing for prey. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

The e-noses can sniff out the unique signatures of volatile organic compounds not only in the breath, but in excretions like sweat or urine, and have AI quickly identify them.

From The Wall Street Journal

She sniffed out a short breath, then added, “I know you’d do swell if you had to go out on your own, but it sure can be lonely out there.”

From Literature

He’d been around so long he could sniff out a lame cadet excuse from a mile away.

From Literature

Buyers who come in with those baselines have an easier time sniffing out bad deals.

From The Wall Street Journal

Danoff’s long success was due in part to his ability to sniff out large growth companies early and ride them for years of gains.

From Barron's

Related Words

• ascertain
• bring to light
• drive out
• get at
• uncover
• unearth