Why It’s So Hard to Describe Smell

Have you ever tried to describe a smell and struggled to find the right words? Unlike sights and sounds, there’s no universal language for scent, making it one of the hardest senses to describe. Words like “floral” or “woody” only scratch the surface of what a fragrance truly smells like. This is why so many people find it difficult to talk about perfumes in precise terms.

Why Perfume Companies Use Words to Sell Scents

If describing smells is so difficult, why do big perfume brands still use words in their marketing? Fragrance companies rely on sensory language to help customers imagine what a perfume smells like before they try it. Terms like “fresh citrus” or “warm vanilla” trigger memories and associations, even if the description doesn’t capture the scent fully. This strategy helps potential buyers connect emotionally to the fragrance, even if they haven’t smelled it yet.

For example, a perfume described as having “rich amber” and “smoky oud” evokes a luxurious, mysterious feeling. It’s not just about the notes but about selling an experience.

How to Describe Smell Effectively

The best way to describe a scent is by focusing on how it makes you feel. Instead of breaking down the technical notes, think about the emotions the fragrance evokes. Does it make you feel energized, cozy, or sensual? Describing these feelings creates a stronger connection with the audience, allowing them to imagine themselves wearing the scent.

When words fall short, emotions step in, making the experience of fragrance far more personal and relatable.