Pronunciation: [nˈə͡ʊzɪŋ ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "nosing out" is /ˈnoʊzɪŋ ˈaʊt/. The word "nose" is spelled with an "e" at the end to represent the vowel sound /oʊ/. The "-ing" suffix indicates the present participle tense, and the word "out" is spelled with a "u" to represent the sound /aʊ/. The phrase is used to describe when someone or something narrowly defeats another in a competition or race.
Nosing out is a verb phrase that refers to the act of gaining an advantage or achieving success by a narrow margin or through cunning tactics. It is often used to describe a situation where someone outmaneuvers or outperforms their competitors, ultimately coming out on top. The phrase originates from the action of a dog using its nose to find or discover something hidden or valuable, emphasizing the idea of using intuition, skill, or cleverness to surpass others.
In a competitive context, nosing out implies the ability to discern opportunities or weaknesses that others may overlook, providing an edge that leads to triumph. It signifies a degree of strategizing, careful observation, or sharp intuition to navigate challenges successfully. This phrase can apply to various scenarios, including sports competitions, business ventures, or personal achievements.
Nosing out can also indicate a situation where someone manages to gain an advantage or achieve success by a very small margin. It denotes a sense of narrowly beating or surpassing others, as if just barely coming in first place or securing a victory. The term conveys the idea that the individual has managed to squeeze through, prevail, or excel despite an initially unfavorable or uncertain position.
Overall, nosing out encapsulates the concept of gaining an advantage or achieving success through skillful maneuvering, cleverness, or by the smallest of margins.
The phrase "nosing out" is derived from the verb "nose".
The word "nose" can be traced back to the Old English word "nosu", which referred to the organ of smell and is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "nusō". It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "nös" and Old High German "nasa".
In English, "nose" gained figurative meanings over time, including "to discover or detect by or as if by smelling" or "to search or pry". The phrase "nosing out" therefore emerged as a way to describe the action of using one's nose metaphorically to detect, discover, or investigate something. It often implies a level of careful examination or exploration.
