Learn how to use the comparative “smellier” and superlative “smelliest” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “smelly”?

The comparative form of “smelly” is “smellier”.

Example

The garbage can is smellier than the flowers.

Example

His socks are smellier than mine.

What is the superlative form of “smelly”?

The superlative form of “smelly” is “smelliest”.

Example

Among all the fruits, durian is considered the smelliest.

Example

The gym locker room is known for being the smelliest place in the building.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with smelly, smellier, and smelliest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more smelly' and 'most smelly' are not commonly used because they sound awkward. Instead, smellier and smelliest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Smelly does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: SmellySmellier Superlative: SmellySmelliest

Expressions with similar meanings to “smellier”

stinkier

Used to describe something that has a stronger and more unpleasant odor

Example

The stinkier the cheese, the better it tastes.

more pungent

A slightly formal way of expressing a stronger smell

Example

The more pungent the spices, the more flavorful the dish.

A formal way of describing something that has a stronger smell

Example

The more odorous the flower, the more attractive it is to bees.

Expressions with similar meanings to “smelliest”

Similar to smelliest, this emphasizes a strong and unpleasant odor

Example

The stinkiest garbage can should be emptied immediately.

most pungent

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of smell

Example

The most pungent spices are often used in small quantities.

A formal way of describing something that has the strongest smell

Example

The most odorous flowers attract a wide variety of insects.

Using than with comparative “smellier”

When using the comparative form smellier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The garbage can is smellier than the flowers." Here, than is used to show that the level of smell in the garbage can is greater than the level of smell in the flowers.

How can I use this expression in context?

“smellier” and “smelliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Food

    The blue cheese is smellier than the cheddar cheese.

    The blue cheese is smellier than the cheddar cheese.

  • 2Animals

    Skunks are known for being one of the smelliest animals.

    Skunks are known for being one of the smelliest animals.

  • 3Places

    The public restroom was the smelliest room in the building.

    The public restroom was the smelliest room in the building.

  • 4Substances

    Ammonia is one of the smelliest chemicals.

    Ammonia is one of the smelliest chemicals.

  • 5Body Odor

    After a long workout, he had the smelliest armpits.

    After a long workout, he had the smelliest armpits.

Related idioms and phrases

Something smells fishy

To suspect that something is not right or honest.

Example

The politician's sudden change of opinion made me think something smells fishy.

Nose out of joint

To be upset or offended by something.

Example

She got her nose out of joint when her idea was rejected.

Turn up one's nose at

To show disdain or rejection towards something.

Example

He turned up his nose at the cheap wine and insisted on something more expensive.

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