be on the scent

be on the scent (of someone or something)

To be pursuing a potential lead in an attempt to find someone or something. With this new evidence, the detective thinks he's finally on the scent of the kidnappers. Please tell me the police are on the scent of the punks that broke my window. Oh, these guys are good. It's impossible for us to be on the scent when criminals leave no trace of themselves behind.

See also: on, scent, someone

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be on the ˈscent (of somebody/something)

have information that will lead you to somebody/something: The police are on the scent of the criminals.

See also: on, scent

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017