litmus test

noun

: a test in which a single factor (such as an attitude, event, or fact) is decisive

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Litmus Test Has Scientific Origins

It was in the 14th century that scientists discovered that litmus, a mixture of colored organic compounds obtained from lichen, turns red in acid solutions and blue in alkaline solutions and, thus, can be used as an acid-base indicator. Six centuries later, people began using litmus test figuratively. It can now refer to any single factor that establishes the true character of something or causes it to be assigned to one category or another. Often it refers to something (such as an opinion about a political or moral issue) that can be used to make a judgment about whether someone or something is acceptable or not.

Examples of litmus test in a Sentence

The party is using attitudes about gun control as a litmus test for political candidates.

Recent Examples on the Web Asked to reflect, Hamilton shares his standout moment so far with the Silver Arrows, what he’s learned about leadership from Mercedes principal Toto Wolff, and why this weekend will be a litmus test for the team. —

Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 22 June 2024 My litmus test for a good bagel comes down to texture. —

Kaitlyn Rosati, New York Daily News, 5 June 2024 This Senate race also could be a litmus test for voters, in a matchup between an establishment incumbent (Ken Bennett) and his MAGA challenger (former lawmaker Mark Finchem). —

Joanna Allhands, The Arizona Republic, 4 Apr. 2024 Officers subject to partisan litmus tests might be inclined to bend those rules. —

Risa Brooks, Foreign Affairs, 20 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for litmus test

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'litmus test.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.