a nose for (something)

An intuitive ability to detect or excel at something. I've always been able to learn languages easily. I guess I just have a nose for it. He's got a real nose for determining which way the stock markets are going to shift. Cecilia has always had a nose for business, so I think she would make a fine addition to the team.

a nose for something

COMMON If someone has a nose for something, they are naturally good at finding it or recognising it. Smith had taken over the company and although he knew little about music, he had a nose for talent. As a journalist, he never lost his nose for a good story.