smell - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
smell Word Meanings
- to perceive a scent through the nose
- to have a strong aroma or odor
- to notice something figuratively or intuitively
smell Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
smell Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/smɛl/
US
/smɛl/
smell Word Etymology
smell is derived from Old English smellan (to make a noise, to make a sound) → Middle English → influenced by German. Imagine a flower releasing its scent into the air, inviting you to take a deep breath.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lift the mug and move it a little closer to my nose. I tilt my head, adjust my breath, and let the steam rise. The scent shifts, growing clearer and more confident in the room. If it feels pleasant, I keep the moment and set it in memory for future talk.
Real Context
Smell is a verb with three related senses in English. First, to perceive a scent with the nose, as in smelling coffee or cookies. Second, to have a particular odor, as in flowers smell sweet or the kitchen smells of garlic. Third, to notice something intuitively or suspiciously, as in smell trouble or smell a rat, which is a vivid figurative use. Learners often mix smell with verbs like see or taste, or confuse the noun smell with odor in casual speech. Remember that smell can take adjectives like good, bad, strong, or faint, and it also forms phrasal patterns such as smell of or smell like.
Usage Reminders
- • Use smell to describe perceiving an odor with your nose
- • Distinguish smell (perception) from odor (the scent itself)
- • You can say smell good or smell bad, but not smell well
- • Use smell of/like with a noun for specific scents
- • Remember the figurative sense: smell trouble, smell a rat
Common Misconceptions
- Smell is only about something smelling pleasant, not about detecting odors
- Smell and odor are always interchangeable nouns
- Smell cannot be used figuratively
- You must say 'smell good' with an adverb (smell well) in correct English
- Confusing with 'see' or 'taste' when describing non-visual or non-tasting information
Thinking Differences
In English, smell covers perception, odor, and metaphorical sense in one verb; learners often default to literal senses and miss figurative uses.
Learning Tips
- Practice both concrete scents and figurative uses in sentences
- Pair smell with adjectives: strong, faint, pleasant, unpleasant
- Differentiate smell (perception) from odor (the scent itself)
- Use smell of/like with nouns to describe specific scents
- Be careful with the phrase smell a rat; it signals suspicion, not literal aroma
- Avoid smell + adverb: you say smell good, not smell well
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of the word 'smell'?
A.To see something clearly with the eyes
B.To perceive or detect an odor through the nose
C.To move quickly on foot
D.To taste food using the mouth
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'smell' correctly?
A.She smell the piano before the recital.
B.I can smell the cookies baking in the kitchen.
C.They asked him to smell the meeting at 3 PM.
D.He will smell the book to turn the page.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'smell'?
A.listen
B.scent
C.glow
D.freeze
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'smell'?
A.odorless
B.stinky
C.perfume
D.inhale
Step 5: Mastery
Which real-life scenario is the best place to use the word 'smell'?
A.Walking into the kitchen and noticing fresh cookies baking.
B.Watching a movie with loud sound effects.
C.Reading a newspaper article about politics.
D.Listening to someone speak in another language.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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