it smells like

USAGE SUMMARY

"it smells like" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe the scent or odor of something. For example: - It smells like fresh flowers in here. - Do you notice that it smells like burnt toast? - I love the way it smells like warm vanilla. - What does it smell like outside after it rains?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It smells like mold.

The New York Times

It smells like Europe.

The New York Times

It smells like springtime.

The Economist

Whatever it smells like.

The New York Times - Arts

"It smells like earth".

The New Yorker

It smells like cinnamon.

The New Yorker

It smells like men.

The New Yorker

It smells like victory".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It smelled like cigarettes.

The New York Times

It smelled like rain.

The New York Times

What it smelled like:  Bodies.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it smells like" to create vivid descriptions that engage the reader's senses. For instance, "it smells like rain" evokes a specific sensory experience.

Common error

Avoid using "it smells like" for non-olfactory comparisons. Instead of saying "it smells like trouble", use "it feels like trouble" or "it seems like trouble".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it smells like" functions as a descriptive expression, specifically used to convey olfactory information. It connects a subject (often a place or object) with a scent it resembles. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showing varied sensory descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it smells like" is a versatile and common descriptive tool, primarily used to convey olfactory experiences by comparing a scent to something familiar. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media where clear and evocative descriptions are valued. While generally neutral, it's crucial to avoid overuse in abstract contexts, sticking to genuine olfactory comparisons. Consider alternatives such as "it has the scent of" or "it gives off an aroma of" for nuanced descriptions. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, writers can effectively leverage "it smells like" to engage readers' senses and create more vivid imagery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has the scent of

This alternative uses more formal language to describe the odor.

it has the odor of

This alternative is a neutral way of indicating a smell.

it gives off an aroma of

This option is more sophisticated and highlights a pleasant scent.

it carries a fragrance of

This phrase emphasizes a delicate and pleasing smell.

it smacks of

This alternative phrase implies a distinctive scent.

it reeks of

This choice suggests a strong and unpleasant odor.

it's reminiscent of

Implies the smell is associated with something else, evoking memories or associations.

a whiff of

Focuses on a brief or faint smell of something.

the air is thick with

Describes a strong, pervasive smell filling the air.

it has a hint of

Implies a subtle or slight smell.

FAQs

How can I use "it smells like" in a sentence?

Use "it smells like" to describe an odor or scent. For example, "It smells like freshly baked bread in here".

What are some alternatives to saying "it smells like"?

You can use alternatives like "it has the scent of", "it gives off an aroma of", or "it carries a fragrance of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it smelled like" instead of "it smells like"?

Yes, "it smelled like" is the past tense form and is correct when describing a past scent. For example, "It smelled like roses when I entered the garden yesterday".

What's the difference between "it smells like" and "it tastes like"?

"It smells like" refers to the odor of something, while "it tastes like" refers to the flavor of something. They are used for different senses. For example, "It smells like coffee" versus "It tastes like chocolate".