acid test

noun

Definition of acid testnext
as in litmus test

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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 acid test The acid test of whether California is getting bang for its taxpayers’ buck is the fact that former Californians have voted with their feet in droves. — Jim Doti, Oc Register, 8 Mar. 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 Andrew Harnik | Getty Images Russia's drone incursion into Poland now poses an acid test for NATO and the European Union. — Sam Meredith, CNBC, 11 Sep. 2025 While Google’s wildly popular TV analogue has hosted the out-of-market Sunday Ticket package since 2023, Friday’s AFC West clash will be an acid test. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for acid test
Recent Examples of Synonyms for acid test
  1. litmus test
  2. fire
  3. cross
  4. crucible
Noun
  • 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
  • Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, however, are the litmus tests, and where the region can really shine.
    — Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Definition of litmus test
Noun
  • An evacuation warning was issued for the area of Paradise Ranch, between Templin Highway and the Pyramid Lake area, according to Los Angeles County fire officials.
    — Andrea Klick, Daily News, 7 July 2026
  • In Los Angeles County, the fire department said a man was critically injured after a fire burned at least two cars in a parking lot in the Wilmington neighborhood on July 3.
    — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 7 July 2026
Definition of fire
Noun
  • Just as El Tri was applying more pressure in the first half, Bukayo Saka broke away down the right flank and sent a cross to Bellingham, who scored in the 36th minute.
    — Eduard Cauich, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
  • Portugal somehow held on, and Goncalo Ramos’ 94th-minute header, with Ronaldo substituted, sparked delirium after a delightful Rafael Leao cross.
    — Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 5 July 2026
Definition of cross
Noun
  • England is a contender with mettle to prove, and facing Mexico at Estadio Azteca is a crucible.
    — Phil Hay, New York Times, 4 July 2026
  • The moral life, writes Murdoch, is not about self-mastery in the crucible of moral struggle.
    — Meghan O’Gieblyn, Harpers Magazine, 30 June 2026
Definition of crucible

Browse Nearby Words

acidness
acid test
acid tests
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Cite this Entry

“Acid test.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/acid%20test. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on acid test

Nglish: Translation of acid test for Spanish Speakers

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