serve-as-a-litmus-test
/sɜːv æz ə ˈlɪt.məs test/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To act as a way to judge something important. It shows what someone really thinks, feels, or can do.
- The debate served as a litmus test for the party.
- Her response served as a litmus test of trust.
- The interview served as a litmus test for the job candidate.
Adinary Nuance
This phrase is more specific than test or check. It means the result reveals a deeper truth, not just basic information. Writers use it when one situation shows someone's real views, ability, or character. It often sounds formal and analytical.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- bài kiểm tra
- Spanish
- prueba decisiva
- Chinese
- 试金石
- Japanese
- 試金石
- Korean
- 시금석
Etymology
This phrase comes from litmus, a dye used in chemistry to test acidity. In English, it became a metaphor in the 20th century for a simple test that reveals an important truth.
Common phrases
a litmus test forserve as a litmus testthe ultimate litmus test
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is serve as a litmus test formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and often appears in writing, news, and academic English.
- What is the difference between a test and a litmus test?
- A litmus test shows a deeper truth or real position, not just a result.
- Can I use this phrase in business writing?
- Yes. It works well when something reveals true priorities, skill, or fit.
- Does it always mean a chemistry test?
- No. In everyday English, it is usually a metaphor, not a science test.