litmus test
Originally a chemical test for acidity, 'litmus test' is now often used metaphorically to describe a decisive criterion in various contexts.
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Definition
B2Chemistry
(technical, academic)A method to determine whether a substance is acidic or alkaline using litmus paper, which changes color based on pH level.
Example
- The chemist used a litmus test to check the acidity of the solution.
C1General
(figurative)A decisive factor or criterion used to determine the presence or absence of a specific quality or characteristic.
Example
- The company's commitment to sustainability is a litmus test for potential investors.
- Her reaction to the proposal served as a litmus test for her true feelings.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "litmus test":