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under one's nose
01
used when something is either obvious or within one's field of vision but one does not notice it
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "under one's nose" and when to use it?
The idiom "under one's nose" originated from the literal notion of something being in close proximity and within sight or reach of a person's nose, yet going unnoticed or overlooked. The phrase figuratively refers to situations where something is happening or present right in front of someone, but they fail to perceive or recognize it due to a lack of attention or awareness. It implies a sense of irony or frustration that the person did not notice something that was seemingly obvious or easily discoverable.
Examples
The keys were under his nose the whole time, but he couldn'tsee them and wasted hours searching for them.
