What Does “Reek of sth” Mean?
“Reek of sth” means to have a strong, unpleasant smell of something or to strongly suggest a particular quality or feeling, often negative.
Introduction
The phrasal verb “reek of sth” is used both literally and figuratively in English. Literally, it describes a strong, bad smell coming from something. Figuratively, it means that something strongly suggests or shows a particular characteristic, often something bad like dishonesty or corruption. Understanding the “Reek of sth meaning” helps learners use it correctly in conversations and writing. This phrase is commonly used in everyday English to express suspicion or to describe unpleasant odors.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Reek of sth (reek of something)
- Type: Intransitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: To smell strongly of something or to strongly suggest a particular quality
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Reek of sth” is an inseparable phrasal verb. You cannot separate “reek” and “of” in sentences. The structure always follows:
- Subject + reek(s) + of + noun/pronoun
Examples:
- The room reeks of smoke.
- His explanation reeks of dishonesty.
How to Use Reek of sth?
Use “reek of sth” when you want to describe a strong bad smell or to suggest that something clearly shows a particular negative quality. It is often used in formal and informal contexts to express suspicion or criticism.
Remember, “sth” stands for “something” and is replaced by the specific noun you want to mention, such as “corruption,” “smoke,” or “fear.”
Examples
Imagine entering a kitchen after someone has been cooking fish all day. You might say:
- The kitchen reeks of fish.
Here are more examples of “Reek of sth in a sentence”:
- The abandoned house reeks of damp and mold.
- His argument reeks of hypocrisy.
- The office reeks of corruption and greed.
- That excuse reeks of lies.
Common Mistakes
People often confuse “reek of sth” with “smell of sth,” but “reek” always implies a strong, unpleasant smell or a strong suggestion of something bad.
Incorrect: The room reeks smoke.
Correct: The room reeks of smoke.
Incorrect: His story reeks lies.
Correct: His story reeks of lies.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrasal verbs include “smell of sth” and “stink of sth.” “Smell of” is neutral and can be good or bad. “Stink of” and “reek of” usually mean a strong bad smell or a strong bad suggestion.
Example:
- The kitchen smells of garlic. (neutral)
- The kitchen stinks of garlic. (unpleasant)
- The kitchen reeks of garlic. (very strong and unpleasant)
Use “reek of” mostly when emphasizing a strong negative sense.
Common Collocations
“Reek of” often pairs with nouns that indicate smells or negative qualities. Here are common collocations with their meanings:
- Reek of smoke – strong smell of smoke
- Reek of corruption – strong suggestion of dishonest behavior
- Reek of fear – obvious signs of fear
- Reek of failure – clear evidence of failure
- Reek of alcohol – strong smell of alcohol
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “reek of sth”:
Anna: The meeting felt strange today.
John: Yeah, it really reeks of dishonesty. I don’t trust what they said.
Anna: Me neither. Something is definitely wrong.
Practice
Complete the sentences with the correct form of “reek of”:
- The old basement _______ of mold and dampness.
- Her excuse _______ of lies and confusion.
- The air _______ of smoke after the fire.
- The report _______ of bias and unfairness.
FAQ
- Q: Can “reek of” be used in positive situations?
A: No, “reek of” usually describes strong bad smells or negative qualities. - Q: Is “reek of” separable?
A: No, “reek” and “of” must stay together. - Q: What level of English is “reek of” suitable for?
A: It is suitable for intermediate to advanced learners (B2 level). - Q: Can I use “reek of” to describe emotions?
A: Yes, figuratively it can describe feelings like fear or dishonesty. - Q: What is the difference between “reek of” and “smell of”?
A: “Smell of” can be positive or neutral, but “reek of” is always strong and often negative.
