follow your nose
Meaning
To go straight ahead or find the way by instinct/intuition rather than detailed directions.
Origin
Originally a literal navigation phrase meaning “go straight ahead,” as if you could simply follow the direction your nose points. It later broadened to mean relying on instinct (and sometimes tracking a smell).
Notes
Often used in giving directions (“go straight ahead”). Figuratively, it means trust your instincts. Casual, friendly tone; can also imply following a smell.
Examples
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To find the bakery, just follow your nose—the smell of fresh bread will lead you there.
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If you get lost in the old town, follow your nose and head toward the river.
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I didn’t have a map, so I followed my nose and ended up at the museum.
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When it comes to choosing a career, sometimes you just have to follow your nose.
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Follow your nose in the market and you’ll find the stall selling roasted coffee beans.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually appears as an imperative (“Follow your nose”) or after a modal (“Just follow your nose”). Fixed pronoun ‘your’ (can change: follow my/her nose). In past: “followed his nose.”
Synonyms
- go straight ahead
- trust your instincts
- go with your gut
- play it by ear
Antonyms
- overthink
- second-guess
- turn back
- go the long way round