may smell of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may smell of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a potential scent or odor associated with something, often in a descriptive or figurative context. Example: "The dish may smell of garlic and herbs, enticing everyone in the kitchen."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Old specimens may smell of herrings.

Wikipedia

The mushroom's strong and unusual odour can be hard to describe; it may smell of flour, though is often unpleasant and rancid.

Wikipedia

Store-bought cat beds may smell of unfamiliar places and materials, which cats find deterring.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Grapes that have become spoiled may smell strongly of vinegar as a result of fermentation.

WikiHow

However, if you belch after taking a supplement it may smell slightly of fish, which is a very common characteristic of supplements.

WikiHow

Young specimens do not have any distinct odor, but fruit bodies may smell slightly of onions or garlic in age.

Wikipedia

However, your period itself will not smell; what you may smell is the smell of a sanitary pad absorbing blood after a few hours.

WikiHow

James Milner – an outside shot this – may smell slightly too much of Hodgson.

The Guardian - Sport

Though the boys may smell bad after a game of football, try not to smell that bad.

WikiHow

Her corner of show business may smell like stale sour mix and fake fog.

The New York Times

Older specimens may smell unpleasant.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may smell of" when describing a possible or potential scent, especially when you're not entirely sure or want to express a degree of uncertainty. For example, "The forest floor may smell of damp earth and decaying leaves after the rain."

Common error

Avoid using "may smell of" when a definite smell is present and obvious. Instead of saying "The roses may smell of roses," use "The roses smell of roses" to clearly state the fragrance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may smell of" functions as a descriptor of a potential or possible scent. It combines a modal verb (may) with a sensory verb (smell) and a preposition (of) to express a sense of possibility rather than certainty. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used to describe a potential scent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may smell of" serves as a descriptor for potential or possible scents, functioning as a modal verb phrase. It is grammatically correct and has neutral register. It indicates a possible olfactory experience, commonly appearing in Wiki, News & Media, and Science contexts. Ludwig AI indicates it is correct and usable in written English, used to describe potential scent. When writing, remember to use "may smell of" when describing potential scents, avoiding it in situations with definite smells.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can have the scent of

Simplified sentence structure.

could have the aroma of

Replaces "smell" with "aroma," suggesting a more pleasant scent.

might reek of

Uses a stronger verb to imply an unpleasant smell.

might give off a scent of

Emphasizes the emission of the smell.

might suggest the odor of

Uses "suggest" to imply a more subtle or indirect association with the smell.

could exude the odor of

Uses more formal vocabulary.

can carry the fragrance of

Emphasizes a pleasant and lingering scent.

might feature hints of

Suggests subtle and nuanced smells.

possibly have the stench of

Emphasizes a foul and offensive smell.

possibly emit the perfume of

Highlights an artificial scent/perfume

FAQs

How can I use "may smell of" in a sentence?

Use "may smell of" to describe a potential or possible scent. For instance, "This wine "may smell of" berries and oak" or "The old book "may smell of" mildew".

What are some alternatives to "may smell of"?

Alternatives include "might have the aroma of", "could give off a scent of", or "might suggest the odor of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "may smell like" instead of "may smell of"?

While "may smell like" is also grammatically correct and commonly used, "may smell of" is often preferred when describing specific components or elements contributing to the scent. Compare to "might smell like".

What is the difference between "smells of" and "may smell of"?

"Smells of" indicates a definite and present scent, while ""may smell of"" suggests a possibility or potential for that scent. The first is a direct observation, the second a speculation.