What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scent
Example
The scent of freshly baked bread filled the air. [scent: noun]
Example
The garden was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. [scent: noun]
Example
She scented the room with lavender oil. [scented: verb]
fragrance
Example
The fragrance of the candles filled the room. [fragrance: noun]
Example
The fragrance of the shampoo lingered in her hair. [fragrance: noun]
Example
He sprayed himself with a fragrance before going out. [fragrance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fragrance is more commonly used than scent in the context of beauty products and commercial products. However, scent is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including natural aromas and characteristic smells of places or objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scent and fragrance?
Both scent and fragrance can be used in formal and informal contexts, but fragrance is often associated with a more luxurious or high-end tone due to its association with beauty products.
