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pass the sniff test

IdiomLevel B2

To seem good, honest or believable when you check it.

His excuse for being late didn't pass the sniff test, so Ken asked more questions.

If something 'passes the sniff test', it seems good or believable. If it doesn't, something feels wrong.

Comic strip. Amira: Steven, I opened the milk. Does it pass the sniff test? Steventeacher: Ha! Literally, yes. Smell it. Is it okay? Olena: In my meeting, the plan didn't pass the sniff test. Steventeacher: Right! The plan seemed wrong. 'Pass the sniff test' can be a joke or an idiom.
Steventeacher explains “pass the sniff test”.
Your turn
Tell us: what story didn't pass your sniff test?

More idioms

put my foot downIdiom · B2

To firmly refuse to allow something, or to insist on a rule.

splitting hairsIdiom · B2

Arguing about a tiny difference that is not important.

spread yourself thinIdiom · B2

To try to do too many things at once, so you can't do any of them well.