Understanding the Subtleties Between ‘Smells Like’ and ‘Smells of'

Language, as rich and diverse as it is, comes with its fair share of nuances that can sometimes trip up even the most skilled communicators. One such common confusion among English speakers revolves around the subtle differences between using 'smells like' and 'smells of.' In this article, we will explore these nuances and provide clear examples to help you comprehend when to use each phrase.

The Nuance: Smells Like vs. Smells of

Let's start by defining the core meanings. The phrase 'smells like' is used to describe a similarity in smell. For example, saying 'it smells like fish' means that the smell is similar to the smell of fish, but it might not actually be fish. This is often used to indicate a strong or recognizable odor that reminds you of something else but isn't the exact source of the smell. Conversely, 'smells of' is used to describe a smell that is an inherent part of an object or environment. For instance, saying 'the soap smells of lavender and rosemary' means that the soap is made with these scents and not simply that it reminds you of them.

Real-World Examples

Consider the following scenario: The police were pounding on Randall’s door and the house still smelled of weed. Here, 'smelled of' conveys that the weed is actually present in the house, not just that the smell is reminiscent of it. On the other hand, Randall asking, 'Does that smell like weed to you?' uses 'smells like' to suggest that the odor is similar to the scent of weed but doesn’t confirm its presence.

The Bread Analogy

To further illustrate these differences, let's use a common household item: bread. When you bake bread, the house is filled with the scent of bread. In this case, the house smells of bread because the smell is an inherent part of the bread itself. However, if you open a bottle of beer that has been fermenting, you might say it 'smells like' bread, meaning the smell is similar to that of rising bread but doesn't necessarily come from actual bread. This distinction is crucial as it clarifies the nature of the smell's origin.

Usage in Everyday Contexts

Understanding when to use these phrases correctly can enhance the clarity and accuracy of your communication. Here are a few more examples to help solidify your understanding:

It smells like roses: This phrase is used to say that something has a strong, similar aroma to roses, but it might not actually be roses.

It smells of roses: This indicates that the smell is truly from roses or that the roses are the source of the odor.

The smell of fresh baked bread: This is used to describe the actual, pleasant aroma of fresh bread, not a smell that merely reminds one of it.

That smells like your kid pooped his pants: This is a colloquial way of indicating a strong, unpleasant odor, similar to the smell of feces, that is not actually present in the form of dirty diapers or feces.

By grasping these distinctions, you can convey your thoughts more precisely and effectively. Whether you're writing about the scents of your garden, the aromas of your kitchen, or the atmosphere of your home, using 'smells like' and 'smells of' correctly can make your descriptions richer and more accurate.

Common Queries and Confusions

Some readers might still be unsure about when to use which phrase. Here are a few frequently asked questions to help clarify the confusion:

Q1: Is there a difference between 'it smells like' and 'it smells of'?

Yes, there is a subtle difference. 'It smells like' is used to describe a similarity in smell, while 'it smells of' indicates that an object or environment has a smell that is an inherent part of it. For example, 'The beer smells like malt' suggests that the smell is similar to malt; whereas, 'The bread smells of fresh baking' indicates that the smell is actually from the freshly baked bread.

Q2: Can these phrases be used interchangeably?

No, they should not be used interchangeably. Using 'smells like' incorrectly can change the meaning of your sentence. For instance, saying 'The bread smells like fresh baking' can be confusing because it suggests that the aroma is not from the actual bread but from something similar. Therefore, it's important to use the correct phrase to convey the exact meaning you intend.

Q3: Are there any regional differences in how these phrases are used?

While the core usage of these phrases is largely consistent across English-speaking regions, local usage can sometimes vary. For example, some regions might prefer 'it smells like' more frequently, but for the most precise and widely understood usage, following the guidelines provided in this article is recommended.

Conclusion

Mastering the correct use of 'smells like' and 'smells of' can greatly enhance your writing and communication skills, making your descriptions more vivid and precise. By understanding the nuances between these closely related phrases, you can convey your intentions accurately, whether you're discussing the fragrances of floral gardens or the aromas of freshly baked pastries.

For further reading and practice, consider exploring more examples in both written and spoken contexts. The better you become at distinguishing between these phrases, the more effective your communication will be. Happy writing and talking!