on the nose

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.

But they’re seldom as musically on the nose as Weezer’s “Island in the Sun” in “Every Year After.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 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

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

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

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