What are the definitions of “smack of”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Appear to have a negative quality.
The government's decision SMACKS OF hypocrisy.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “smack of”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb smack of is to appear to have a negative quality or to suggest something unpleasant. It is often used to describe a situation, action, or decision that seems to be hypocritical, dishonest, or insincere.
What are the different verb forms of “smack of”?
| Root Verb | smack of |
| Third Person Singular Present | smacks of |
| Present Participle | smacking of |
| Simple Past | smacked of |
| Past Participle | smacked of |
Example
His comments smack of arrogance and disrespect.
Example
The politician's speech smacks of insincerity.
Example
The decision is smacking of favoritism towards certain groups.
Example
The company's response smacked of dishonesty.
Example
Her actions have always smacked of selfishness.
What kind of phrasal verb is “smack of”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“smack of” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The situation smacks of corruption.
Example
Their actions smack of desperation.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“smack of” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The situation smacks of corruption.
Example
Their actions smack of desperation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “smack of”?
To suggest a sense of desperation or urgency.
Example
Their last-minute efforts smack of desperation to win the election.
To seem dishonest or untrustworthy.
Example
The company's financial reports smack of dishonesty and fraud.
Good things to know
Does “smack of” have an informal or formal tone?
Smack of is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'suggest,' 'indicate,' or 'imply' to convey a similar meaning.
