litmus test

noun

Definition of litmus testnext
as in challenge
something (such as an opinion about a political or moral issue) that is used to make a judgment about whether someone or something is acceptable The party is using attitudes about gun control as a litmus test for political candidates.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of litmus test The Daiquiri is no exception as this simple mix of rum, lime, and sugar is regarded as a litmus test for great bartenders and a great foundation for many more drinks. — Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 6 June 2026 A lot of two-out hits This series was considered a litmus test of sorts for the Mets in the NL East coming into it. — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 18 June 2026 But more than using any specific set of policies as a litmus test, Democratic voters appear drawn to the candidates who most radiate disdain for the status quo. — Elaine Godfrey, The Atlantic, 1 July 2026 And the only litmus test of finding the personnel who will thrive in the Chesney system is forming relationships off the field — allowing authenticity to rise to the top. — Connor Dullinger, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for litmus test
Recent Examples of Synonyms for litmus test
  1. challenge
  2. gauntlet
  3. acid test
  4. trial
  5. litmus
Noun
  • Throughout the journey, Pfendler documented life alone at sea for hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, sharing the physical and mental challenges of crossing one of the world's largest oceans.
    — Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • Reservations are recommended and parking can be a challenge, with limited spaces available in the dedicated lot.
    — Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of challenge
Noun
  • The National Mall seems to be wrapped in a variety of fencing, some of it in place for construction reasons, some of it to create a security gantlet for the July 4 celebration.
    — Matt Viser, The Atlantic, 2 July 2026
  • The operators who survive this structural gauntlet may find themselves on the other side of a very different landscape.
    — Peter Su, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
Definition of gauntlet
Noun
  • Self-translation is the acid test for one’s writing.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 14 Apr. 2026
  • But the way Arsenal are performing, a very tight victory seems the most likely outcome before the acid test away to Manchester City next weekend.
    — Oliver Kay, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2026
Definition of acid test
Noun
  • Defense attorneys argued during the trial that the defendants planned a peaceful protest and noise demonstration with fireworks to show support for people detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
    — Amy McDaniel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026
  • If the judge finds there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, Robinson will be arraigned and enter pleas.
    — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
Definition of trial
Noun
  • But if President Xi does make a move, whether by mounting a full-scale attack or using his military to blockade the island, the key question will be where such actions fall on the litmus scale.
    — Ned Temko, Christian Science Monitor, 12 Sep. 2025
  • One of the best was the part about enjoying the season and not making playoff success your litmus for hockey fandom happiness.
    — Murat Ates, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024
Definition of litmus

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Cite this Entry

“Litmus test.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/litmus%20test. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on litmus test

Nglish: Translation of litmus test for Spanish Speakers

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