LITMUS TEST Meaning and
Definition
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A litmus test refers to a tool or criteria used to assess and determine someone's suitability, loyalty, or opinions on a specific issue, especially within politics, ideology, or beliefs. Derived from the standard litmus paper used to test the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, a litmus test became figurative in its meaning to characterize an evaluation method.
In a political context, a litmus test often refers to a question or set of questions that a candidate, nominee, or supporter of a particular cause must answer in order to prove their loyalty, alignment, or adherence to a specific set of principles or values. It serves as a benchmark to gauge someone's level of commitment or their degree of conformity to a particular ideology.
Typically, a litmus test involves polarizing or pivotal issues, and the answers are expected to be either in line with the specific ideology or against it. Those who fail to meet the expected response or deviate from the desired stance may face criticism or consequences such as a loss of support or endorsement.
However, it is important to note that a litmus test can be subjective and often fosters a binary approach to complex issues, potentially limiting constructive dialogue and diversity of thought. The term is commonly used in political discourse as a means to evaluate and categorize individuals based on their views or commitments.
Common Misspellings for LITMUS TEST
- kitmus test
- pitmus test
- oitmus test
- lutmus test
- ljtmus test
- lktmus test
- lotmus test
- l9tmus test
- l8tmus test
- lirmus test
- lifmus test
- ligmus test
- liymus test
- li6mus test
- li5mus test
- litnus test
- litkus test
- litjus test
- litmys test
Etymology of LITMUS TEST
The term "litmus test" originated from the field of chemistry. It takes its name from the combination of two Latin words: "litmus", which means dye, and "testum", which means evidence or proof.
Litmus is a blue dye extracted from lichens, primarily Roccella tinctoria and Roccella fuciformis. In the 16th century, this dye was commonly used as an indicator in chemical experiments to determine whether a substance was acidic or basic. When litmus was added to a solution, it would turn red in the presence of an acid and blue in the presence of a base.
Over time, the term "litmus test" expanded beyond chemistry and started to be used metaphorically to describe a straightforward measure or assessment used to determine someone's position or belief on a particular issue.
Idioms with the word LITMUS TEST
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a litmus test
The idiom "a litmus test" refers to a situation or event that serves as a decisive measure or indicator of something. It is often used to describe a test or criteria used to determine loyalty, qualification, or compatibility. Just as a litmus test is used to determine the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, a figurative litmus test helps reveal the true nature, qualities, or beliefs of a person or situation.
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litmus test
A litmus test is a test in which a single factor determines the outcome or decision of something. It is used to determine the true nature, quality, or value of someone or something.
Similar spelling words for LITMUS TEST
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