What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stink
Example
The garbage in the bin started to stink after a few days. [stink: verb]
Example
The stink from the sewage plant was unbearable. [stink: noun]
odor
Example
The odor of freshly baked bread filled the room. [odor: noun]
Example
She sprayed air freshener to remove the odor from the room. [odor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Odor is more commonly used than stink in everyday language. Odor is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while stink is less common and is typically used in informal situations to describe bad smells.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stink and odor?
Odor is more formal than stink and is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional settings. Stink is more informal and is typically used in casual conversations or informal writing.
