on the scent (of something)
on the scent (of something)
1. Of an animal, following the scent of something, typically another animal that is its prey. Once the fierce predator is on the scent of its prey, it's unlikely it will stop pursuing it. They put the bloodhounds on the scent of the escaped prisoners.
2. By extension, having become attuned to the pursuit of something, especially due to having made some new observation or acquired some clue. You can always tell Detective Gomez is on the scent when he starts pinning things to the bulletin board. I've been to six different stores today, but I think I'm finally on the scent of it now after reading some reviews.
See also: on, scent
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
on the scent
1 (of an animal) following the scent of its quarry. 2 in possession of a useful clue in a search or investigation.See also: on, scent
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- on the scent
- put (one) off the scent
- put a dog off the scent
- put off the scent
- put someone off the scent
- put/throw somebody off the scent
- prey (up)on (someone or something)
- prey on
- imprint on (someone or something)
- snap head off