smells strong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smells strong" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to describe a strong or powerful odor. Example: The curry in the kitchen smells strong and spicy, making my mouth water in anticipation.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

IF IT SMELLS STRONG, DO NOT USE! Casings can be reloaded until they begin to show signs of wear, such as a minute crack near the case mouth.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It smells stronger than water-based primer, but does a far superior job of sealing the woodgrain.

WikiHow

Now the disinfectant smelled strong and good to Nawab.

The New Yorker

Find a nice cool secluded place as the cabbage can smell strong.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

11/03/03: Deliverer smelled strong odor of gas when entered client's apartment.

The New York Times

And in the case of vinegar, they can smell strong in not such a good way.

Huffington Post

Edibles may not be Lowell Herb Co.'s thing, but their concept of wearables is certainly looking (and smelling) strong.

Vice

Also garlic should never stink or smell strong when you are buying it in the bulb.

WikiHow

remember, you're just 12-14 years old, so cologne is a bonus because cologne can smell strong and if you smell too bad or your cologne smell is too strong, she'll walk away.

WikiHow

"I don't know why I always said no". "Mum's chicken smelled stronger than this, more chickeny".

The Guardian - Opinion

Leave it in the sun for a bit to make it smell stronger.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a sensory experience, ensure that "smells strong" is accompanied by descriptive details about the specific smell to provide a clearer image for the reader. For example, instead of just saying "the room smells strong", specify "the room smells strongly of pine and citrus".

Common error

Avoid using "smells strong" as a standalone description. Always provide context about the source and type of smell to enhance clarity and avoid vagueness. Describe what it smells strong of.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smells strong" typically functions as a descriptive phrase, where "smells" acts as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "strong." As Ludwig AI indicates, this construction accurately describes an intense or powerful odor. The example from WikiHow "If it "smells strong", do not use!" demonstrates this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

44%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "smells strong" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a potent odor. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence. Predominantly found in Wiki, News & Media, and Science contexts, it serves the purpose of conveying the intensity of a smell. For improved clarity, always specify what it smells strong of. While phrases like "has a strong odor" or "emits a strong scent" offer similar meanings, "smells strong" directly emphasizes the act of smelling. Its neutral register makes it versatile for diverse communicative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smells intensely

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the intensity of the smelling experience.

smells powerfully

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the powerful nature of the odor.

has a strong odor

Focuses on the presence of a strong odor rather than the act of smelling.

emits a strong scent

Implies a more deliberate release of a strong smell.

gives off a powerful aroma

Suggests a pleasant and intense smell, often in the context of food or plants.

exudes a pungent fragrance

Implies a sharp or penetrating smell, which may not always be pleasant.

is heavily scented

Highlights the intensity of the scent.

has an overpowering smell

Indicates that the smell is so strong it is unpleasant or difficult to ignore.

carries a robust fragrance

Suggests a full-bodied and intense smell, often used for perfumes or wines.

reeks strongly

Implies a very unpleasant and intense smell.

FAQs

How can I use "smells strong" in a sentence?

You can use "smells strong" to describe an intense odor. For example, "The garlic "smells strong" when it's first cooked" or "That perfume "smells strong"; a little goes a long way".

What are some alternatives to "smells strong"?

Alternatives include phrases like "has a strong odor", "emits a strong scent", or "exudes a pungent fragrance", depending on the specific context and the nature of the smell.

Is it correct to say "smells strongly" instead of "smells strong"?

Both "smells strong" and "smells strongly" are grammatically acceptable, but "smells strong" is more common in contemporary usage. "Smells strongly" may sound more formal or literary.

Which is more appropriate: "smells strong" or "has a strong smell"?

Both phrases are correct. "Has a strong smell" focuses on the presence of the smell, while "smells strong" emphasizes the act of smelling and the intensity of the odor.