peculiar odors

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peculiar odors" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe unusual or strange smells in various contexts, such as in cooking, environmental descriptions, or when discussing scents in a narrative. Example: "As I entered the old attic, I was greeted by a mix of peculiar odors that hinted at years of neglect and forgotten treasures."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

An international team earned the Biology prize for their work identifying the peculiar odors exuded by 131 species of stressed-out frogs, while Medicine went to the inventor of Neuticles: fake dog testicles that have been surgically implanted into more than 150,000 neutered dogs in 47 countries.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was not long afterward that her friends noticed a peculiar odor when she was about.

The New Yorker

This bug, as you know, "has only to pass over a fruit to impart to it" its peculiar odor.

The New York Times - Books

If untreated, PKU causes progressive developmental delay in the first year of life,, severe mental retardation, seizures, autisticlike behavior and a peculiar odor.

The New York Times - Health

An ant that wanders into the territory of another colony just 50 yards away will quickly be torn apart by workers, which recognize the peculiar odor of a rival.

The New York Times - Science

The first thing you will notice as you walk through the farm is the lack of the peculiar odor that goats usually have.

Huffington Post

Pyridine, a hepatotoxin with its own peculiar odor, was also detected in the raw material samples (Baxter 1947; Carlson 1996; International Labor Office 1983; Pollock et al. 1943).

Environmental Health Perspectives

Subjects answered the question "Have you ever noticed a peculiar odor when you pee after eating asparagus?" From this question, it is not possible to tell whether the allele is related to the inability to produce the odorant (in an amount sufficient to detect) or the inability to smell it.

Chemical Senses

Q. I've noticed when I ride the PATH train to New Jersey that the tunnels have a peculiar, acrid odor, quite unlike anything I've smelled in the New York City subways.

The New York Times

Murrill also noted that it developed a "peculiar sickening odor during drying".

Wikipedia

Although Dubowitz syndrome has been largely described in the medical literature, this is the first time that a peculiar urine odor was reported.

Application of Clinical Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "peculiar odors", be specific about what makes them unusual. Use descriptive adjectives to convey the unique characteristics of the scent.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "peculiar" without providing further sensory details. Instead of just saying the odor is peculiar, describe what it smells like, its intensity, and any associations it evokes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "peculiar odors" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'peculiar' modifies the noun 'odors'. It is used to describe smells that are unusual, strange, or distinctive. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Wiki

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "peculiar odors" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe unusual or strange smells. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts like news, science and literature to highlight distinct sensory experiences. For greater impact, accompany with descriptive adjectives to enrich the reader's sense of smell. Consider alternative terms like "strange smells" or "unusual scents" for variety. Always aim for specific descriptions rather than relying on "peculiar" alone. The phrase maintains a neutral register, fitting for various writing styles but adjust vocabulary according to the specific context and desired impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strange smells

Focuses on the unusual nature of the scents.

unusual scents

Highlights the uncommon aspect of the aromas.

odd fragrances

Emphasizes the atypical and potentially pleasant nature of the smells.

weird aromas

Implies a bizarre or inexplicable quality to the smells.

distinctive smells

Highlights the unique and easily identifiable nature of the odors.

uncommon fragrances

Focuses on the rarity and refined aspect of the scents.

atypical scents

Emphasizes that the aromas deviate from the norm.

remarkable odors

Stresses the noticeable and noteworthy nature of the smells.

singular smells

Underscores the uniqueness and individuality of the odors.

unfamiliar scents

Highlights the lack of prior experience with the aromas.

FAQs

How can I describe "peculiar odors" in a more vivid way?

To make your description more engaging, try using similes or metaphors to compare the odor to something familiar. For example, "The peculiar odor was like a mix of burnt sugar and wet dog" or "The air hung heavy with peculiar odors, each scent telling a story of forgotten spices and damp earth."

What are some synonyms for "peculiar odors" that I can use to add variety to my writing?

Consider using alternatives such as "strange smells", "unusual scents", or "odd fragrances" to avoid repetition.

Is it appropriate to use "peculiar odors" in formal writing?

While "peculiar odors" is grammatically correct, its appropriateness depends on the context. In formal or scientific writing, consider using more precise and technical terms to describe the specific chemical compounds or sources of the odor. In creative writing, "peculiar odors" can effectively convey a sense of mystery or unease.

What's the difference between "peculiar odors" and "pungent odors"?

"Peculiar odors" simply refers to unusual or strange smells, without necessarily implying that they are strong or unpleasant. "Pungent odors", on the other hand, specifically describes odors that are sharp, strong, and often irritating to the senses.