ˈʌndər ˈsʌmwʌnz noʊz
Body Parts
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- Directly in front of someone's nose
What does "under someone's nose" mean?
- Right in front of someone but unnoticed
- Obvious but overlooked
Examples
- The evidence was right under his nose the whole time.
- She was stealing money under the boss's nose.
- I found my keys under my nose—on the table!
Origin
From the idea that something directly in front of your face (under your nose) should be seen but somehow isn't.
How to use it
Often used to express surprise or frustration at missing something obvious.
Similar expressions
in plain sight
right in front
obvious
visible
Opposites
hidden
concealed
out of sight
Related idioms
- keep an eye on
To watch or monitor something carefully
- heart of gold
A very kind, generous, and caring nature
- caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong
- keep your chin up
To stay positive and not be discouraged
- wrap your head around something
To understand something complex
- all ears
Listening attentively and eagerly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "under someone's nose" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.