acid test

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Toney has scored 42 goals for his Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli this season, not necessarily the acid test of international quality, but this pick has not come from left field.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

Nevertheless, he is teaming up with a company that is totally new to the golf industry and, while range data might be encouraging, the acid test can only come on the course.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

"This was the real acid test here against a team motivated to win and the holders of the competition," he insisted.

From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026

Single stair, and the fate of Culver City’s ordinance specifically, represents an early California acid test.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 23, 2025

In chemistry and physics the acid test of one’s understanding of a system is whether one can successfully predict its future behavior.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond