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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Recent Examples of litmus test
It was viewed as a litmus test of voters' feelings about the opening months of President Donald Trump's second term and Musk's role at the Department of Government Efficiency.
—
Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
Meanwhile, some see Gibney’s upcoming documentary about Musk as a major litmus test for how far the gatekeepers will go to support a film that might antagonize Trump.
—Tatiana Siegel, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025
The third term question could quickly become a litmus test for the aspiring heirs to the MAGA crown.
—Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 18 Mar. 2025
Subject to partisan litmus tests, military leaders might be wary of offering advice that contradicts the administration’s priorities.
—Risa Brooks, Foreign Affairs, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for litmus test
Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
Meanwhile, some see Gibney’s upcoming documentary about Musk as a major litmus test for how far the gatekeepers will go to support a film that might antagonize Trump.
—Tatiana Siegel, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025
The third term question could quickly become a litmus test for the aspiring heirs to the MAGA crown.
—Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 18 Mar. 2025
Subject to partisan litmus tests, military leaders might be wary of offering advice that contradicts the administration’s priorities.
—Risa Brooks, Foreign Affairs, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for litmus test
Recent Examples of Synonyms for litmus test
Noun
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The challenge — and opportunity — is clear: to create retail and dining spaces that feel as wondrous and essential as the rides themselves.—
Kate Hardcastle,
Forbes.com,
27 Apr. 2025
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After the Oilers tied the game back up, there was a double review (first for a kick, then a challenge for interference) to confirm the goal.—
Shayna Goldman,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Every week is a fresh start with a new gauntlet and a new Snake.—
Joe Otterson,
Variety,
22 Apr. 2025
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The trio must tag team to outsmart a cunning international thief and save a priceless diamond gauntlet — just in time for Christmas.—
Brian Welk,
IndieWire,
15 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Liverpool passed acid tests in Milan and Manchester, and are perfect from six Champions League games, only conceding once.—
Liam Tharme,
The Athletic,
31 Dec. 2024
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That was the acid test that our music was acceptable.—
David Browne,
Rolling Stone,
22 Dec. 2024
Noun
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And, of course, this is the first major litmus tense of the young and divisive Donald Trump presidency.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
31 Mar. 2025
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Her litmus to make sure these moments were successful?—
William Earl,
Variety,
23 Jan. 2025
Noun
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This has created a sense of urgency to not only fill open roles but fill them with workers who are ready and willing to tackle the industry’s next generation of trials and demands.—
Jim Pauley,
Forbes.com,
28 Apr. 2025
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The prosecution laid out two main reasons for opposing the expert testimony, days before the trial is set to begin.—
Lauryn Overhultz,
FOXNews.com,
28 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Litmus test.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/litmus%20test. Accessed 1 May. 2025.
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