Definition

Verb (transitive): 1. To discover or detect something through investigation or instinct: To find something hidden or not obvious, often by using one's intuition or by searching carefully. 2. To perceive or identify by or as if by the sense of smell: To detect the presence or nature of something as if using the olfactory sense, often implying a keen, almost instinctive ability.

Usage and Examples

• The new auditor was hired to smell out any financial irregularities in the accounts.
• The journalist has a talent for smelling out a good story before anyone else.
• The dog was able to smell out the drugs hidden in the luggage.
• She can smell out insincerity from a mile away.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• Implied Process: The phrasal verb often implies a process of searching, investigating, or using one's keen perception, not just a passive awareness. It suggests uncovering something that was concealed or not immediately apparent.
• Figurative vs. Literal: While it can be used literally (e.g., a dog smelling out a scent), it is more commonly used figuratively to describe detecting abstract concepts like trouble, corruption, or opportunity.

Variants and Related Words

• Smell (verb): To perceive the odor of something. (e.g., )
• Sniff out (phrasal verb): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "smell out," especially in both literal and figurative contexts. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Detect
• Discover
• Uncover
• Ferret out
• Sense intuitively

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Nose out: To discover or detect something, especially by persistent investigation. (e.g., )
• Root out: To find and remove something completely. (e.g., )

Related Idioms

• Have a nose for (something): To have a natural talent for finding or recognizing something. (e.g., )
• Follow one's nose: To go straight ahead or to be guided by instinct. (e.g., )

Verb

1. become aware of not through the senses but instinctively
   • I sense his hostility
   • i smell trouble
   • smell out corruption
2. recognize or detect by or as if by smelling
   • He can smell out trouble