Under your nose

Meaning

Right in front of you and easy to miss.

Usage

Used when someone overlooks something obvious.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Literally beneath one's nose but still visible.

Used throughout the 19th century to describe obvious details.