experiment (up)on (someone or something)

experiment (up)on (someone or something)

To perform tests on someone or something in order to gain insight and data about it. We got approval to start experimenting on mice, so we can see how the procedure affects their islet cells.
See also: experiment
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

experiment (up)on someone or something

to use someone or something as the subject of an experiment. (Upon is formal and less commonly used than on.) Do you think we should experiment upon people? The researchers were experimenting on a new drug that might cure rabies.
See also: experiment, on
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • experiment
  • experiment on
  • experiment with
  • experiment with (something)
  • for the best
  • all for the best
  • here's the thing (about someone or something)
  • lick (someone) out
  • lick out
  • squeak out