Definition

1. Adjective phrase:
   • Extremely fragrant / Intensely aromatic: Describes a powerful, pervasive, and very pleasant smell, often so strong it seems to fill the air. It implies a richness and depth of fragrance.
   • Deliciously fragrant: Often used specifically for the enticing, mouth-watering smell of food.

Usage Examples

• Adjective phrase:
  • Căn bếp thơm nức mùi bánh mới ra lò. (The kitchen is filled with the delicious smell of freshly baked bread.)
  • Hoa nhài nở trắng vườn, thơm nức cả một góc. (The jasmine flowers bloomed white in the garden, fragrantly perfuming the entire corner.)
  • Món ăn đó trông thơm nức. (That dish looks/smells incredibly appetizing.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase "thơm nức mũi" is a common variant with identical meaning, adding "mũi" (nose) for emphasis on the sensory impact.
  • Mùi cà phê rang thơm nức mũi. (The smell of roasting coffee is wonderfully aromatic.)

Variants and Related Words

• Thơm ngát (adj): diffusely and elegantly fragrant (often for flowers, scents).
• Thơm phức (adj): strongly and appealingly fragrant (almost exclusively for food).
• Thơm sực (adj): a sudden, striking wave of fragrance; a synonym for "thơm nức."

Synonyms

• Fragrant: having a pleasant smell.
• Aromatic: having a distinctive and pleasant smell.
• Redolent: strongly reminiscent or suggestive; fragrant.
• Savory-smelling: specifically for food.

Related Idioms

• While "thơm nức" itself is descriptive, it is often used in the idiom "thơm nức tiếng" (less common), meaning famous or renowned in a positive way.
  • Ngôi làng ấy thơm nức tiếng với nghề làm gốm. (That village is widely renowned for its pottery craft.)