A21K

Smell

UK /["/smel/","/smelz/","/smeld/","/smelt/","/ˈsmelɪŋ/"]/US /["/smel/","/smelz/","/smeld/","/smelt/","/ˈsmelɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to have a particular smell

In simple words: To sense something by the nose.

Examples

  • I love the smell of fresh coffee in the morning.
  • Can you smell the flowers in the garden?
  • The smell of the sea reminds me of my childhood.
  • He tried to smell the perfume, but it was too strong.
  • There was a strange smell coming from the garbage.
  • Some animals use smell to find food.
  • She could smell the smoke from the fire a mile away.
  • In nature, smell can help animals communicate.

Usage notes

Used when describing a scent or fragrance. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but may be less common in very scientific discussions.

Grammar pattern

smell + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'smell' as the image of a flower’s scent wafting through the air.

Collocations

  • strongly
  • faintly
  • slightly
  • like
  • of
  • almost
  • practically
  • can
  • almost
  • practically
  • can

Synonyms

  • sniff

Antonyms

  • taste
  • sight
  • sound

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'smell' as a noun and verb; remember 'I smell flowers' vs 'The smell of flowers is nice.'
  • Omitting the object, like saying 'I smell' without specifying what.
  • Using 'smell' inappropriately with non-sensory descriptions, such as 'I smell to be happy.'