Smelled or Smelt: Mastering the Past Tense of ‘Smell’
Understanding the nuances of English verb tenses can often be tricky, especially when dealing with irregular verbs or words that have variations in their past tense forms. One such verb is ‘smell.’ Is the past tense ‘smelled’ or ‘smelt’? Both forms are correct, but their usage depends on regional preferences and stylistic choices. This article will delve into the intricacies of both forms, providing clarity and examples to help you confidently use them in your writing and speech. Whether you’re an ESL learner, a student, or simply someone looking to refine their grammar skills, this guide will provide the comprehensive knowledge you need.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of ‘Smell’
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Usage
- Examples of ‘Smelled’ and ‘Smelt’
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition of ‘Smell’
The word ‘smell’ can function as both a verb and a noun. As a noun, it refers to the sensation or odor perceived by the nose. As a verb, ‘smell’ describes the act of detecting an odor or emitting an odor. This article focuses on ‘smell’ as a verb and, specifically, its past tense forms. The verb ‘smell’ is generally classified as a stative verb when it describes a state of being (e.g., “This rose smells lovely”) and an action verb when it describes the act of smelling something (e.g., “I smelled smoke”).
The past tense of ‘smell’ is where variations arise. While ‘smelled’ is considered the regular past tense form, ‘smelt’ is an alternative, irregular form. Understanding the context and regional preferences is crucial for appropriate usage. Both forms convey the action of perceiving or emitting an odor in the past.
Structural Breakdown
The verb ‘smell’ follows standard verb conjugation rules in its present tense and present participle forms. However, its past tense and past participle forms present two options: ‘smelled’ (regular) and ‘smelt’ (irregular). Let’s break down the structure:
- Present Tense: smell (I smell, you smell, we smell, they smell; he/she/it smells)
- Past Tense: smelled / smelt (I smelled/smelt, you smelled/smelt, etc.)
- Present Participle: smelling (I am smelling, you are smelling, etc.)
- Past Participle: smelled / smelt (I have smelled/smelt, you have smelled/smelt, etc.)
The key difference lies in the past tense and past participle. ‘Smelled’ is formed by adding ‘-ed’ to the base form, adhering to the regular verb conjugation pattern. ‘Smelt,’ on the other hand, is an irregular form, similar to verbs like ‘felt’ (from ‘feel’) and ‘dealt’ (from ‘deal’). The choice between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ often depends on regional dialect and personal preference.
Types and Categories of Usage
The usage of ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ can be categorized based on regional preferences and stylistic choices. Although both are generally accepted, one might be more common or preferred in certain contexts.
Regional Preferences
In American English, ‘smelled’ is the more common and widely accepted past tense form. While ‘smelt’ is not incorrect, it is less frequently used and might sound slightly archaic or formal to some American English speakers. In British English, both ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ are commonly used, with ‘smelt’ possibly having a slight edge in frequency, though this can vary depending on the specific region within the UK.
Stylistic Choices
The choice between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ can also be a matter of stylistic preference. Some writers might choose ‘smelt’ for its slightly more concise and perhaps more literary feel. Others might prefer ‘smelled’ for its straightforwardness and adherence to regular verb conjugation patterns. In formal writing, ‘smelled’ might be considered safer, especially if the target audience is primarily American English speakers. However, in creative writing, either form can be used to achieve a particular effect.
Past Participle Usage
Both ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ can also function as past participles, typically used with auxiliary verbs like ‘have’ or ‘had’ to form perfect tenses. For instance, “I have smelled the roses” or “I had smelt something burning.” Again, regional and stylistic preferences dictate which form is chosen. In American English, “have smelled” is more common, while both are acceptable in British English.
Examples of ‘Smelled’ and ‘Smelt’
To further illustrate the use of ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt,’ let’s examine a variety of examples in different contexts. The tables below provide sample sentences showcasing each form.
Examples with ‘Smelled’
The following table presents examples using ‘smelled’ in various sentence structures and contexts. These examples reflect common usage, especially in American English.
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| I smelled freshly baked bread as I walked past the bakery. | Describing a pleasant odor |
| She smelled smoke and immediately called the fire department. | Describing a dangerous situation |
| The dog smelled the treat in my hand. | Describing an animal’s sense of smell |
| He smelled something rotten in the refrigerator. | Describing an unpleasant odor |
| We smelled the rain coming long before it started to pour. | Describing anticipation of weather |
| They smelled the perfume she was wearing from across the room. | Describing a strong scent |
| The detective smelled a rat; something wasn’t adding up. | Idiomatic expression indicating suspicion |
| The children smelled the cookies baking in the oven. | Describing a comforting smell |
| I smelled gas and quickly opened the windows. | Describing a potentially dangerous situation |
| He smelled success after closing the deal. | Figurative language describing a feeling of accomplishment |
| She smelled the ocean air and felt instantly relaxed. | Describing a sensory experience |
| The chef smelled the sauce to check its seasoning. | Describing a culinary action |
| We smelled the flowers in the garden. | Describing a simple sensory activity |
| They smelled trouble brewing between the two companies. | Figurative language describing an impending problem |
| The old house smelled of dust and memories. | Describing a nostalgic smell |
| I smelled a hint of lavender in the room. | Describing a subtle scent |
| She smelled the fear in his voice. | Figurative language describing emotional awareness |
| The mechanic smelled burning rubber. | Describing a technical issue |
| We smelled victory after the final point. | Figurative language describing a sense of triumph |
| He smelled the coffee brewing in the morning. | Describing a routine smell |
| I have smelled that perfume before, but I can’t place it. | Using smelled as past participle |
| She had smelled the change in the air before anyone else noticed. | Using smelled as past participle |
| They had smelled the opportunity and seized it immediately. | Figurative usage as past participle |
Examples with ‘Smelt’
The following table presents examples using ‘smelt’ in various sentence structures and contexts. These examples are more common in British English but can also be found in other contexts.
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| I smelt freshly baked bread as I walked past the bakery. | Describing a pleasant odor |
| She smelt smoke and immediately called the fire department. | Describing a dangerous situation |
| The dog smelt the treat in my hand. | Describing an animal’s sense of smell |
| He smelt something rotten in the refrigerator. | Describing an unpleasant odor |
| We smelt the rain coming long before it started to pour. | Describing anticipation of weather |
| They smelt the perfume she was wearing from across the room. | Describing a strong scent |
| The detective smelt a rat; something wasn’t adding up. | Idiomatic expression indicating suspicion |
| The children smelt the cookies baking in the oven. | Describing a comforting smell |
| I smelt gas and quickly opened the windows. | Describing a potentially dangerous situation |
| He smelt success after closing the deal. | Figurative language describing a feeling of accomplishment |
| She smelt the ocean air and felt instantly relaxed. | Describing a sensory experience |
| The chef smelt the sauce to check its seasoning. | Describing a culinary action |
| We smelt the flowers in the garden. | Describing a simple sensory activity |
| They smelt trouble brewing between the two companies. | Figurative language describing an impending problem |
| The old house smelt of dust and memories. | Describing a nostalgic smell |
| I smelt a hint of lavender in the room. | Describing a subtle scent |
| She smelt the fear in his voice. | Figurative language describing emotional awareness |
| The mechanic smelt burning rubber. | Describing a technical issue |
| We smelt victory after the final point. | Figurative language describing a sense of triumph |
| He smelt the coffee brewing in the morning. | Describing a routine smell |
| I have smelt that perfume before, but I can’t place it. | Using smelt as past participle |
| She had smelt the change in the air before anyone else noticed. | Using smelt as past participle |
| They had smelt the opportunity and seized it immediately. | Figurative usage as past participle |
Comparison: ‘Smelled’ vs. ‘Smelt’
This table highlights the subtle differences and contexts where each form might be preferred.
| Aspect | ‘Smelled’ | ‘Smelt’ |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Preference | More common in American English | More common in British English |
| Formality | Generally considered slightly more formal or standard | Can sound slightly more informal or literary |
| Frequency | More frequently used overall (globally) | Less frequent but still widely accepted, especially in the UK |
| Past Participle | ‘Have smelled’ is more common in American English | ‘Have smelt’ is acceptable and used in British English |
| Stylistic Impact | Straightforward and clear | Potentially more concise or evocative |
Usage Rules
The primary rule is to be consistent within your writing. If you choose to use ‘smelled,’ stick with it throughout the piece. Similarly, if you opt for ‘smelt,’ maintain that form. Mixing the two forms can create an inconsistent and potentially jarring reading experience.
Consider your audience. If you are writing for an American audience, ‘smelled’ is generally the safer and more widely accepted choice. If you are writing for a British audience, either ‘smelled’ or ‘smelt’ is acceptable, though ‘smelt’ might be slightly more common. If you are unsure, ‘smelled’ is a universally understandable option.
In formal writing, ‘smelled’ is often preferred due to its adherence to regular verb conjugation rules. However, in creative writing, the choice is more flexible and depends on the desired stylistic effect. Pay attention to the overall tone and voice of your writing when making your decision.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is mixing ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ inconsistently within the same piece of writing. Another error is assuming that ‘smelt’ is incorrect altogether. While it is less common in American English, it is still a valid and acceptable form, particularly in British English.
Another mistake is confusing ‘smelt’ (the past tense of ‘smell’) with ‘smelt’ (a type of small fish). Context usually makes the meaning clear, but it’s important to be aware of the potential for confusion.
Here are some examples of common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I smelled the roses, and then I smelt the lavender. | I smelled the roses, and then I smelled the lavender. OR I smelt the roses, and then I smelt the lavender. | Inconsistent use of past tense forms |
| He has smelted the metal. | He has smelt the metal. OR He has smelled the metal. | ‘Smelted’ is not the correct past participle form of ‘smell.’ It is used for the verb ‘smelt’ (to melt ore). |
| “Smelt” is not a real word for the past tense of smell. | “Smelt” is a real word for the past tense of smell, especially in British English. | Incorrect assumption about the validity of ‘smelt’ |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ with these practice exercises. Choose the correct form for each sentence.
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Form
Select the correct past tense form (‘smelled’ or ‘smelt’) to complete each sentence.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I ______ something burning in the kitchen. | smelled/smelt |
| 2. She ______ the flowers and smiled. | smelled/smelt |
| 3. The dog ______ the stranger cautiously. | smelled/smelt |
| 4. We ______ gas and immediately called the emergency services. | smelled/smelt |
| 5. He ______ success in the air after the negotiation. | smelled/smelt |
| 6. They ______ the rain coming from miles away. | smelled/smelt |
| 7. I have never ______ such a wonderful fragrance. | smelled/smelt |
| 8. She had ______ the danger long before it became apparent. | smelled/smelt |
| 9. The old book ______ of must and decay. | smelled/smelt |
| 10. The chef ______ the soup to check the seasoning. | smelled/smelt |
Answers: 1. smelled/smelt, 2. smelled/smelt, 3. smelled/smelt, 4. smelled/smelt, 5. smelled/smelt, 6. smelled/smelt, 7. smelled/smelt, 8. smelled/smelt, 9. smelled/smelt, 10. smelled/smelt
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with either ‘smelled’ or ‘smelt’ to complete the sentences logically.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. As soon as I entered the room, I ______ something peculiar. | smelled/smelt |
| 2. Have you ever ______ the scent of petrichor after a rain? | smelled/smelt |
| 3. The detective ______ a conspiracy brewing beneath the surface. | smelled/smelt |
| 4. The baker ______ the bread to ensure it was perfectly baked. | smelled/smelt |
| 5. The campers ______ the campfire burning throughout the night. | smelled/smelt |
| 6. She ______ the perfume sample and decided to buy the full bottle. | smelled/smelt |
| 7. The dog had ______ the bone buried in the backyard. | smelled/smelt |
| 8. They ______ the opportunity and quickly took advantage of it. | smelled/smelt |
| 9. The antique shop ______ of old paper and forgotten stories. | smelled/smelt |
| 10. I ______ the coffee brewing and knew it was time to wake up. | smelled/smelt |
Answers: 1. smelled/smelt, 2. smelled/smelt, 3. smelled/smelt, 4. smelled/smelt, 5. smelled/smelt, 6. smelled/smelt, 7. smelled/smelt, 8. smelled/smelt, 9. smelled/smelt, 10. smelled/smelt
Exercise 3: Correct the Sentences
Identify and correct any errors in the following sentences related to the use of ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt.’ If the sentence is correct, write “Correct.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I smelled the flowers, and then I decided I would go home. | Correct |
| 2. She smelted something delicious in the kitchen. | She smelt something delicious in the kitchen. OR She smelled something delicious in the kitchen. |
| 3. He has smelted success after working so hard. | He has smelt success after working so hard. OR He has smelled success after working so hard. |
| 4. They had smelled trouble brewing from a mile away. | Correct |
| 5. I smelted the roses and felt happy. | I smelt the roses and felt happy. OR I smelled the roses and felt happy. |
| 6. She smelled the ocean air, and then she smelt the pine trees. | She smelled the ocean air, and then she smelled the pine trees. OR She smelt the ocean air, and then she smelt the pine trees. |
| 7. The dog smelt danger and started barking. | Correct |
| 8. We smelled gas, so we called the fire department. | Correct |
| 9. Have you ever smelt such a beautiful scent? | Correct |
| 10. I have smelled something burning. | Correct |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, it’s important to understand the historical context of ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt.’ ‘Smelt’ is an older form, tracing back to Old English. Over time, ‘smelled’ emerged as the regularized form, following the common pattern of adding ‘-ed’ to form the past tense. The survival of ‘smelt’ is a testament to the persistence of irregular verb forms in the English language. Understanding this history can provide a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the language.
Another advanced topic is the use of ‘smell’ in figurative language. Phrases like “smelling trouble” or “smelling success” are common idioms that use the verb ‘smell’ to convey a sense of intuition or anticipation. Whether you use ‘smelled’ or ‘smelt’ in these idioms depends on your regional preference and the overall tone of your writing.
Finally, exploring the usage of ‘smell’ in literature can be enlightening. Many authors use sensory details, including smells, to create vivid imagery and evoke emotions. Analyzing how different authors use ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ can provide insights into their stylistic choices and the impact of language on the reader’s experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the past tense of ‘smell’:
- Is ‘smelt’ an actual word?
Yes, ‘smelt’ is a valid past tense and past participle form of the verb ‘smell.’ It is more commonly used in British English, but it is also recognized and used in American English, although to a lesser extent.
- Is ‘smelled’ incorrect?
No, ‘smelled’ is not incorrect. It is the regular past tense and past participle form of ‘smell’ and is widely accepted in both American and British English. In American English, it is the more common form.
- Which form should I use in formal writing?
In formal writing, ‘smelled’ is generally preferred, especially if your target audience is primarily American English speakers. It is considered the more standard and less ambiguous option.
- Can I use ‘smelt’ in American English?
Yes, you can use ‘smelt’ in American English, but be aware that it might sound slightly less common or more formal to some speakers. It is not incorrect, but ‘smelled’ is the more typical choice.
- Is there a difference in meaning between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’?
No, there is no difference in meaning between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt.’ Both forms convey the same action of perceiving or emitting an odor in the past. The difference is primarily stylistic and regional.
- What about the word ‘smelted’? Is that related?
The word ‘smelted’ is the past tense and past participle of the verb ‘smelt,’ which means to melt ore in order to extract metal. It is not related to the verb ‘smell’ and its past tense forms ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt.’
- How can I remember which form to use?
A helpful tip is to consider your audience and your own writing style. If you are writing for an American audience or prefer a more straightforward style, use ‘smelled.’ If you are writing for a British audience or prefer a slightly more concise or literary style, ‘smelt’ is a good option.
- What if I mix ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ in my writing?
It’s best to be consistent. Mixing the two forms can create an inconsistent reading experience. Choose one form and stick with it throughout your writing.
Conclusion
The choice between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt’ ultimately depends on regional preference, stylistic choice, and the intended audience. While ‘smelled’ is generally more common in American English and considered the more standard form, ‘smelt’ is widely accepted and used, particularly in British English. Understanding the nuances of these two forms allows you to make informed decisions and write with confidence and clarity.
Remember to be consistent in your usage and consider your audience when choosing between ‘smelled’ and ‘smelt.’ By mastering this subtle aspect of English grammar, you can enhance the precision and effectiveness of your writing and communication. With practice and attention to detail, you can confidently navigate the complexities of English verb tenses and express yourself with greater accuracy and fluency.
