on the nose

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

“When you are racing, you have to look ahead, not just at what is in front of you on the nose of your car,” Roigard says.

From BBC

The scenes all have something in them that feels slightly off, whether it’s dialogue that’s a little too on the nose or behavior that seems hollow.

From Los Angeles Times

Using an actual "dead cat" is a bit on the nose, but I have no doubt that at least some of them are aware of the concept.

From Salon

Later, in a behind-the-scenes video posted on Instagram, Perry explained that the video was meant to be "satire" and "slapstick and very on the nose".

From BBC

"He is someone who can be crude and cruel and also incredibly funny and insightful, and very on the nose about the world he lives in," she said.

From BBC