get a whiff

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Definition

Verb phrase: - To perceive a smell, especially a brief, sudden, or strong one. It means to detect an odor through the nose, often implying the smell is noticeable, intense, or striking.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe the act of smelling something, typically for the first time in a specific moment or situation. It often carries a connotation of the smell being potent, surprising, or distinctive. - It is commonly used in informal and conversational English. - It can be used with both pleasant and unpleasant smells.

Examples
  • Basic Usage:
    • As soon as I opened the door, I got a whiff of freshly baked bread.
    • Did you get a whiff of that perfume? It's very strong.
    • He got a whiff of smoke and immediately called the fire department.
Advanced Usage
  • "Get a whiff of something": This is the standard construction. The preposition "of" is always used to introduce the source of the smell.
    • We got a whiff of the ocean air as we approached the coast.
  • Figurative Use: It can be used metaphorically to mean to detect or sense a hint or suggestion of something intangible, like an idea, emotion, or situation.
    • The investors got a whiff of trouble and pulled out of the deal.
    • I got a whiff of nostalgia when I heard that old song.
Variants and Related Words
  • Whiff (n): A brief, slight smell or puff of air or smoke.
    • A whiff of garlic came from the kitchen.
  • Catch a whiff: A synonymous phrase with identical meaning and usage.
    • I caught a whiff of her expensive perfume.
Synonyms
  • Catch a scent of: To detect a smell.
  • Detect a smell/odor of: A more formal way to express the same idea.
  • Sniff: To inhale through the nose to smell something (can be a more deliberate action).
Related Phrasal Verbs/Idioms
  • Whiff on (something) (Informal, primarily sports): To miss or fail at something, especially to swing and miss at a pitched ball in baseball.
    • The batter whiffed on three straight pitches.
  • Not get a whiff of: To not experience or detect something at all.
    • The other team didn't get a whiff of the ball in the second half.
Verb
  1. smell strongly and intensely

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