Definition

Adjective: - Overwhelmingly fragrant; intensely aromatic: Describes a scent or aroma that is very strong, rich, and pervasive, often to the point of being almost suffocatingly sweet or pleasant. It implies a powerful, concentrated, and delightful smell.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Mùi hoa nhài trong vườn thơm ngạt ngào. (The scent of jasmine in the garden is overwhelmingly fragrant.)
  • Căn phòng ngạt ngào hương bánh mới ra lò. (The room is filled with the intense aroma of freshly baked bread.)

Advanced Usage

• Used figuratively to describe intense emotions or artistic beauty: While its primary meaning relates to scent, it can be used poetically to describe something that is profoundly moving, beautiful, or emotionally rich, much like a powerful fragrance.
  • Bài thơ của anh ấy chứa đựng một tình yêu ngạt ngào. (His poem contains an overwhelming love.)
  • Bức tranh toát lên vẻ đẹp ngạt ngào của mùa xuân. (The painting exudes the intoxicating beauty of spring.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ngào ngạt (adj): A variant form with the same meaning: intensely fragrant.
  • Mùi cà phê ngào ngạt lan tỏa khắp phố. (The rich aroma of coffee spreads throughout the street.)

Synonyms

• Thơm nức: Very fragrant, sweet-smelling.
• Thơm nồng: Warmly and strongly fragrant.
• Nồng nàn: Passionate, ardent; can describe a strong scent or intense feeling.

Notes on Different Meanings

This word has a very specific meaning focused on powerful, pleasant smells. It is not typically used for unpleasant odors. The figurative use to describe emotions or art is an extension of this core sensory meaning, suggesting something is as rich and affecting as a powerful fragrance.

1. thơm ngạt ngào sweet-scented