Smell out

usgb
verb

To discover or recognize something or someone by using your senses or intuition.

The detective was able to smell out the criminal from the group of suspects.
Visual representation of "smell out" - To discover or recognize something or someone by using your senses or intuition

Often appears as...

  • teachers can smell out trouble
  • dogs can smell out drugs
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "smell out"
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Figurative Sense

Often used metaphorically to describe human ability to detect something not obvious.

Illustration for Figurative Sense
A good journalist can smell out an untold story.
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Intuition

It emphasizes using one's intuition rather than concrete evidence.

Illustration for Intuition
She could smell out dishonesty, even when there were no clear signs.
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Subtle Clues

Refers to identifying something by picking up on subtle signs or clues.

Illustration for Subtle Clues
He was able to smell out the company's financial issues before they were announced.
Visual representation of the word "Smell out"

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