Definition of "on the nose" in English

Prepositional phrase

1. Exact; precise; appropriate.

   • His estimate that they would consume 23 boxes was on the nose.
   • His choice of decor was on the nose, considering the theme of the party.

2. Unimaginative; over-literal; lacking nuance.

   • Wearing that floral dress to a garden party was a little on the nose, wouldn't you say?

3. Smelly, malodorous.

   • That bucket of raw prawns you left in the sun is a bit on the nose.

4. Being a bet on a horse to finish first.

5. On the lookout.

6. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see on,‎ nose.