litmus test

USAGE SUMMARY

'litmus test' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiom meaning a method of measuring or judging something. Example: His proposal was a litmus test for the team - if they all agreed, it could move ahead.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's the litmus test".

The New York Times

It's a litmus test.

The Washington Post

(3) Litmus test.

Nature

Therein lies the litmus test.

The New York Times - Magazine

My litmus test is different.

The New York Times

That was the litmus test.

Harvard Business Review

Golf "was a litmus test for character.

The Economist

And that litmus test is inspiration.

The New York Times

Beretta's political litmus test is stringent.

The New York Times

It is nature's ultimate litmus test".

Independent

That to me is the litmus test.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "litmus test" when you want to emphasize that a single factor will decisively determine an outcome or reveal a hidden characteristic. For example, "The candidate's stance on climate change was the litmus test for many voters."

Common error

Avoid using "litmus test" for minor indicators or factors that only partially influence an outcome. A true litmus test is a decisive factor, not just a contributing element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "litmus test" functions primarily as a noun, often acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies something as a crucial indicator or decisive factor. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a common and acceptable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science & Research

15%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "litmus test" is a common idiom used to describe a decisive test or indicator. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Its frequent appearance in reputable news sources like The New York Times and The Guardian highlights its widespread acceptance. When using "litmus test", ensure you are referring to a truly decisive factor, and not just a minor influence. Alternatives such as "acid test" or "key indicator" can be considered depending on the specific context. By understanding its nuances and using it appropriately, you can effectively communicate the critical nature of a particular factor in determining an outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acid test

Emphasizes a rigorous and conclusive test of genuineness or worth, often implying a severe or definitive evaluation.

key indicator

Highlights the role of the phrase as a significant measure that points to a particular trend or condition.

critical factor

Focuses on the importance of the phrase as an essential element that influences the outcome.

decisive criterion

Stresses the role of setting a standard against which something is judged, suggesting a final judgment.

benchmark

Highlights the role as a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.

touchstone

Implies a test of quality or purity, indicating a fundamental principle or standard.

barometer

Indicates a measure that reflects current conditions or changes, like a gauge.

bellwether

Emphasizes the role of the phrase as an indicator of future trends.

canary in a coal mine

Indicates an early warning sign of potential danger or problems.

proving ground

Focuses on the aspect of a test or trial that demonstrates capability or effectiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "litmus test" in a sentence?

You can use "litmus test" to describe a decisive indicator or a crucial factor that determines an outcome. For example, "The company's ability to innovate will be the "litmus test" for its long-term success."

What's a good alternative to "litmus test"?

Depending on the context, you can use "acid test", "key indicator", or "critical factor" as alternatives to "litmus test".

Is it appropriate to use "litmus test" in formal writing?

Yes, "litmus test" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. It's a well-understood idiom that adds emphasis to a critical factor or indicator.

What does it mean when something is described as a "litmus test"?

When something is described as a "litmus test", it means that it serves as a decisive measure or indicator. It highlights a single factor that will reveal the true nature or outcome of a situation.