disgusting stench

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disgusting stench" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unpleasant or offensive smell in various contexts, such as in literature, descriptions of environments, or discussions about hygiene. Example: "As I entered the abandoned building, a disgusting stench filled the air, making it hard to breathe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

An Ulster Unionist councillor is kicking up a stink on the north coast, complaining about a "disgusting stench" from Ballycastle's new multi-million pound waterworks.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ultimately, the emergency response team couldn't figure out the source of the disgusting, mystery stench.

Vice

"It was difficult," he says, "but I learned how men smell and how not to be disgusted by the stench".

The New York Times

Because racism and bigotry is disgusting, and no frailty, ignorance, good intention, confusion or anything else can diminish its stench.

Huffington Post

Disgusting really.

University of California, Berkeley

"Disgusting hag".

The New Yorker

Disgusting term.

The New Yorker

"Disgusting mouth!

The New Yorker

Really disgusting".

Independent

Taste: Disgusting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ridiculous, disgusting.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "disgusting stench" to vividly convey a strong feeling of revulsion caused by a particularly offensive smell. The combination is effective when you want to emphasize both the intensity and unpleasantness of the odor.

Common error

While "disgusting stench" is appropriate for descriptive writing, avoid using it in formal reports or professional communications. Opt for more neutral terms like "strong odor" or "unpleasant smell" in those situations to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disgusting stench" functions primarily as a descriptive element, adding vivid detail and emotional impact to writing. The adjective "disgusting" intensifies the noun "stench", creating a strong sensory image. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disgusting stench" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, designed to evoke a strong sense of revulsion due to an offensive odor. While grammatically sound, its usage is relatively rare and leans towards informal contexts like news and descriptive writing, being less common in formal or scientific settings. As Ludwig AI highlights, it effectively combines an adjective of strong negativity with a noun that already implies unpleasantness. For more formal contexts, synonyms like "foul odor" or "unpleasant smell" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revolting odor

Replaces "stench" with "odor" and "disgusting" with "revolting", emphasizing the repulsiveness of the smell.

foul smell

Uses "foul" to describe the unpleasantness instead of "disgusting", presenting a simpler alternative.

repulsive odor

Substitutes "disgusting" with "repulsive", highlighting the capacity of the smell to cause aversion.

nauseating stink

Replaces "stench" with "stink" and "disgusting" with "nauseating", emphasizing the stomach-churning nature of the smell.

offensive reek

Replaces "stench" with "reek" and "disgusting" with "offensive", focusing on the bothersome nature of the smell.

horrendous smell

Uses "horrendous" to amplify the negativity, suggesting a terrible smell.

vile odor

Substitutes "disgusting" with "vile", suggesting a morally repugnant smell.

putrid scent

Replaces "stench" with "scent" and "disgusting" with "putrid", indicating a rotting, decaying smell.

sickening aroma

Emphasizes the capability of the smell to make someone feel ill.

obnoxious odor

Focuses on the intrusiveness and unpleasantness of the smell.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "disgusting stench" in a sentence?

Use "disgusting stench" to vividly describe an extremely unpleasant odor that evokes a strong sense of revulsion. For instance, "A "disgusting stench" permeated the abandoned building, making it unbearable to enter."

What are some alternatives to "disgusting stench"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "foul odor", "repulsive smell", or "nauseating stink". Each option subtly alters the intensity and specific nuance of the description.

Is "disgusting stench" appropriate for formal writing?

While descriptive and impactful, "disgusting stench" might be too informal for certain professional contexts. In formal writing, consider using more neutral alternatives like "strong odor" or "unpleasant smell".

What makes "disgusting stench" more effective than simply saying "bad smell"?

"Disgusting stench" is more impactful because it explicitly conveys both the unpleasantness and the intensity of the smell, evoking a stronger emotional response than the more generic "bad smell". It emphasizes the revulsion caused by the odor.