What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
smell
Example
I can smell the flowers from here. [smell: verb]
Example
The smell of freshly baked bread is so inviting. [smell: noun]
whiff
Example
I caught a whiff of perfume as she walked by. [whiff: noun]
Example
He whiffed the air, trying to detect any unusual smells. [whiff: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Smell is a more common word than whiff and is used in a wider range of contexts. Whiff is less commonly used and is often limited to specific situations or contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between smell and whiff?
Both smell and whiff are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
