smelling the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smelling the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the scents of two or more items, indicating that they have a similar aroma. Example: "Despite being different flowers, they were both smelling the same, filling the room with a sweet fragrance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That's a lot of people all going around smelling the same.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Everyone starts smelling the same during a festival, so this isn't the time to be overly fussed.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Now it's all boxes, little long rooms, every cinema is the same, they smell the same, they have the same character, the sameness is the central quality.

The Guardian - Film

It smells the same.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They even smell the same.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still smells the same as well.

The Guardian - Sport

"But nothing smells the same anymore.

The New York Times

"It still smells the same," he says.

The Guardian - Music

Everyone smelled the same as Jennifer Lopez.

The Guardian - Music

For the next week, I smelled the same smell.

The New York Times - Science

They all smelled the same, didn't they?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing sensory experiences, ensure that using "smelling the same" adds a specific descriptive value, differentiating it from simply stating the objects have a similar origin or appearance. For instance, emphasize how despite different presentations, the underlying scent unites them.

Common error

Avoid using "smelling the same" as a default or filler phrase in general descriptions. Ensure it adds meaningful detail, not just reiterating common aspects. For example, instead of stating that multiple cleaning products "smelling the same", detail the specific scent profile they share, such as "lemon" or "pine."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smelling the same" functions primarily as a verb phrase used for describing a sensory experience related to olfaction. It indicates that two or more distinct entities share a similar or identical scent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "smelling the same" is a grammatically sound and generally accepted way to describe the similarity in scents between two or more entities. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, although its frequency is relatively uncommon. It serves the primary function of comparing scents and highlighting a shared olfactory experience. While suitable for a range of contexts, from news articles to casual conversation, users should ensure its usage adds specific descriptive value. Alternative phrases such as "having an identical scent" or "possessing a similar aroma" may offer more formality in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having an identical scent

Emphasizes the exact match in scent between two or more things.

possessing a similar aroma

Highlights the similarity in fragrance or aroma.

exhibiting the same fragrance

Focuses on the shared characteristic of emitting a particular scent.

sharing a common smell

Indicates that multiple items have a smell in common.

having the same odor

Uses the word "odor" to denote the shared smell.

smelling alike

A more concise way of saying they have the same smell.

emitting a uniform scent

Stresses the consistency of the scent being emitted.

presenting a parallel fragrance

Indicates that different items have parallel or matching scents.

bearing an equivalent smell

Highlights that the smells are equal or equivalent.

resembling in scent

Focuses on the similarity or resemblance in terms of scent.

FAQs

How can I use "smelling the same" in a sentence?

You can use "smelling the same" to compare the scents of different items, indicating they share a similar aroma. For example, "Despite being different brands, the two detergents were "smelling the same"."

What are some alternatives to "smelling the same"?

Alternatives include "having an identical scent", "possessing a similar aroma", or "exhibiting the same fragrance", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "smelling the same"?

While generally acceptable, "smelling the same" may sound informal in some contexts. Consider using a more formal alternative like "having an identical scent" in professional or academic writing.

What's the difference between "smelling the same" and "smelling alike"?

"Smelling the same" implies a higher degree of similarity, suggesting the scents are virtually indistinguishable. "Smelling alike", on the other hand, suggests a general similarity but allows for subtle differences. Therefore, the nuance difference between the two phrases is: grade of similarity.