What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
odour
Example
The odour of rotten eggs filled the room. [odour: noun]
Example
This candle has a lovely odour of lavender. [odour: noun]
smell
Example
I can smell the freshly baked bread from here. [smell: verb]
Example
The smell of coffee always wakes me up in the morning. [smell: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smell is more commonly used than odour in everyday language. Smell is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while odour is less common and refers to a more specific type of smell.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between odour and smell?
Odour is typically associated with a more formal tone, while smell is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
