Sniff out

usgb
verb

To discover or identify a hidden or lost object, situation, or person.

The police dogs were trained to sniff out bombs.
Visual representation of "sniff out" - To discover or identify a hidden or lost object, situation, or person.

Often appears as...

  • sniff out a secret
  • sniff out danger
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "sniff out"
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Hidden Discovery

Used when someone uncovers something not easily noticed or that's deliberately concealed.

Illustration for Hidden Discovery
The auditor sniffed out financial discrepancies in the accounts.
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Investigative Skills

Often involves using expertise or specialized skills to find something.

Illustration for Investigative Skills
Detectives can sniff out the tiniest clues at a crime scene.
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Not Literal

Does not always involve the physical act of smelling; it's a metaphor for detecting.

Illustration for Not Literal
His parents could always sniff out when he was lying.
Visual representation of the word "Sniff out"

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