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How To Say "Smelly" In Spanish

Have you ever found yourself searching for the right word to describe an unpleasant odor in Spanish? The English term "smelly" is a common descriptor used to refer to unpleasant odors or scents. However, when it comes to translating this word into Spanish, there are a few different options to choose from, each with its own regional nuances. In this article, we will delve into the various ways to say "smelly" in Spanish, exploring the meaning, pronunciation, and usage of these terms.

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What is "Smelly" in Spanish?

The term "smelly" is used to describe something that emits an unpleasant odor or scent. In Spanish, this concept can be expressed through several words and phrases, each with its own unique connotations. Some of these translations include maloliente (IPA: /mal.oˈljen.te/), apestoso (IPA: /a.pe̞sˈto̞.so̞/), and fétido (IPA: /ˈfe̞.ti.ðo̞/).

Meaning of "Smelly" in Spanish

Understanding the nuances of the term "smelly" in Spanish goes beyond just knowing the translations. Different words can carry different shades of meaning, and it is essential to grasp these subtleties to communicate effectively. Here is how these translations vary in meaning:

  • Maloliente: This term is the closest match to the English "smelly." It is a straightforward way to convey that something has a bad odor. You might use it to describe a foul-smelling room or a pungent dish.
  • Apestoso: While "apestoso" also means "smelly," it can sometimes carry a more intense connotation. This term might be used to describe something that does not just have an unpleasant odor, but one that is particularly overpowering or offensive.
  • Fétido: "Fétido" conveys a sense of repulsiveness and might be reserved for situations where the smell is truly offensive. It is often associated with decomposition, decay, or other highly undesirable scents.

—Other different noun, verb, adjective, and adverb forms of smelly (smell, to smell, smellable, smellily) are analyzed in other MostUsedWords.com blog posts. 

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Regional References

When delving into the meaning of "smelly" in Spanish, it is important to consider the regional variations that exist within the Spanish-speaking world. Different countries may lean toward one term over the others, reflecting their own linguistic preferences. For instance:

  • In Mexico and much of Latin America, "maloliente" is the go-to term for referring to something that emits an unpleasant odor.
  • "Apestoso" is widely used in Spain and is recognized throughout most Spanish-speaking countries.
  • "Hediondo" is also used in Spain but might be less common in Latin American countries.

How to Say "Smelly" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "smelly" in Spanish:

  • La basura en el contenedor está realmente maloliente.

(The trash in the bin is really smelly.)

  • Después de la tormenta, el aire en la calle quedó apestoso.

(After the storm, the air on the street became smelly.)

  • No puedo soportar el olor hediondo de esos zapatos viejos.

(I can't stand the foul smell of those old shoes.)

  • Compramos pescado en el mercado, pero resultó ser maloliente.

(We bought fish at the market, but it turned out to be smelly.)

  • El queso que encontré en la nevera estaba tan apestoso que no pude comerlo.

(The cheese I found in the fridge was so smelly that I couldn't eat it.)

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Conclusion

The world of aromas is as diverse as the languages used to describe them. When searching for the right way to say "smelly" in Spanish, you have options that capture various degrees of unpleasantness and intensity. Whether you opt for "maloliente," "apestoso," or "hediondo," remember that regional variations exist and that context matters. So, the next time you encounter an unpleasant odor and need to express it in Spanish, you will have a range of words at your disposal to accurately convey the smelly situation!


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