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B1 noun 11 min read

气味

qìwèi

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 气味 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 气味 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '气味' (qìwèi) simply as the word for 'smell.' You might use it in very basic sentences to talk about things you like or don't like. For example, '花的气味' (smell of flowers) or '咖啡的气味' (smell of coffee). At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that '气' is like 'air' and '味' is like 'taste.' Together, they describe what you smell with your nose. You might hear your teacher say '好闻的气味' for a good smell and '不好闻的气味' for a bad smell. It's a noun, so you put it at the end of a description. It's one of the basic words for describing the world around you using your five senses. Try to notice it when you are in a kitchen or a garden.

At the A2 level, you should start using '气味' (qìwèi) with simple measure words and more descriptive adjectives. You will learn that '味道' (wèidào) is more common for food you are eating, while '气味' is better for the air or objects. You can start using the verb '闻' (wén - to smell) with '气味.' For example, '我闻到了花的气味' (I smelled the scent of flowers). You can also use adjectives like '奇怪' (qíguài - strange) or '特别' (tèbié - special) to describe smells. This word helps you move beyond basic 'good/bad' descriptions and start identifying specific sources of smells in your environment. You might also see this word in simple stories describing a setting, like a forest or a rainy day. It's a key word for building your descriptive vocabulary.

As a B1 learner, you should use '气味' (qìwèi) with more precision. You should be comfortable using the measure word '股' (gǔ) for a whiff or a stream of smell, such as '一股难闻的气味' (a nasty smell). You should also understand that '气味' is a neutral term used in scientific or objective contexts, unlike '香味' (fragrance) or '臭味' (stink). You can use it to describe more complex situations, such as the '气味' of a new car or a science experiment. At this level, you might also encounter the metaphorical use of the word, such as '气味相投' (to have similar tastes/be like-minded). You should be able to distinguish clearly between '气味' (olfactory only) and '味道' (taste/smell) in various contexts. This level requires you to use the word in longer, more complex sentences with multiple clauses.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '气味' (qìwèi) in both formal and informal settings with high accuracy. You should be able to discuss the nuances of different smells using advanced adjectives like '刺鼻' (cìbí - pungent/stinging), '芬芳' (fēnfāng - fragrant), or '淡雅' (dànyǎ - simple and elegant). You will encounter '气味' in literature, news reports about environmental issues, and technical descriptions. You should also be familiar with how '气味' relates to memory and emotion in Chinese culture. For instance, describing how a certain '气味' can '勾起回忆' (bring back memories). You should be able to explain the difference between '气味' and its more abstract cousin '气息' (qìxī), which refers more to an 'aura' or 'breath.' Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's objective nature.

At the C1 level, your understanding of '气味' (qìwèi) should extend to its subtle connotations in classical and modern literature. You should be able to use it to describe abstract concepts, such as the '气味' of a historical period or a social movement. You will recognize it in sophisticated idioms and metaphorical expressions. Your vocabulary should include professional terms related to '气味,' such as '气味特征' (aromatic profile) in the context of wine or perfume analysis. You should be able to write detailed descriptive passages where '气味' is used to create atmosphere and depth. At this stage, you are not just using the word; you are manipulating it to convey specific moods and tones. You should also be aware of regional variations or specific cultural associations with certain '气味' in China, such as the smell of specific teas or traditional medicines.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of '气味' (qìwèi) and can use it with absolute precision in any context, from highly technical scientific papers to evocative poetic works. You understand the deep etymological roots of the characters and how they have evolved. You can participate in complex debates about olfactory psychology or the chemistry of scents using this terminology. You are comfortable with all idiomatic and metaphorical uses, and you can even create your own metaphors using the word. Your use of measure words, collocations, and modifiers is flawless. You can distinguish between the most subtle synonyms like '馨香,' '馥郁,' and '气味' in a literary critique. For you, '气味' is a versatile tool that you can use to describe the most ephemeral sensations with clarity and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

气味 in 30 Seconds

气味 (qìwèi) is the standard Chinese noun for 'smell' or 'odor,' used exclusively for olfactory sensations rather than taste or flavor.
It consists of '气' (air/gas) and '味' (taste/smell), literally meaning the smell carried in the air by invisible particles.
It is a neutral term that requires adjectives like '好闻' (pleasant) or '难闻' (unpleasant) to indicate the quality of the scent.
The most common measure word for a specific instance or 'whiff' of a smell is '股' (gǔ), as in '一股气味'.

The term 气味 (qìwèi) is a foundational noun in the Chinese language used to describe the sensory experience of smell or odor. Composed of two characters—气 (qì) meaning gas, air, or spirit, and 味 (wèi) meaning taste or flavor—it literally translates to the 'taste of the air.' While in English we might distinguish strictly between 'scent,' 'fragrance,' 'odor,' and 'smell,' 气味 serves as a broad, neutral umbrella term that encompasses all of these. It can refer to the delightful aroma of freshly brewed jasmine tea, the pungent stench of a garbage bin, or the sterile, clinical scent of a hospital hallway. In everyday conversation, native speakers use 气味 when they want to identify the specific olfactory quality of an object or environment without necessarily assigning a positive or negative value to it initially.

Literal Definition: The objective olfactory characteristic of a substance as perceived by the nose.
Metaphorical Use: The 'vibe' or 'aura' of a person or situation, often implying a shared characteristic or a suspicious quality.

森林里充满了泥土的气味。(Sēnlín lǐ chōngmǎnle nítǔ de qìwèi.)

Translation: The forest is filled with the smell of soil.

Beyond the physical, 气味 carries significant weight in Chinese literature and psychology. It is often linked to memory and nostalgia. Because the character 气 also relates to 'vital energy,' a person's 气味 is sometimes thought to reflect their inner nature. In a social context, if you say two people have the same 气味 (气味相投 - qìwèi xiāngtóu), you are implying they share the same tastes, temperaments, or even dubious intentions. This makes the word versatile, moving from a chemist's lab report to a romantic poem or a detective novel where a 'suspicious smell' (可疑的气味) triggers a plot twist. Whether you are describing the 'smell of rain' (雨后的气味) or the 'smell of danger' (危险的气味), this word is your primary tool.

这种化学药品有一种刺鼻的气味。(Zhè zhǒng huàxué yàopǐn yǒu yī zhǒng cìbí de qìwèi.)

Translation: This chemical has a pungent odor.

Scientific Context: Used to describe volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or pheromones in biology.

老房子的气味让他想起了童年。(Lǎo fángzi de qìwèi ràng tā xiǎngqǐle tóngnián.)

Translation: The smell of the old house reminded him of his childhood.

Using 气味 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the typical adjectives that accompany it. In Chinese grammar, 气味 is often the subject of a sentence or the object of verbs like 闻到 (wéndào - to smell/detect), 散发 (sànfā - to emit), or 带有 (dàiyǒu - to carry/have). Because it is a neutral term, you must provide context through modifiers to indicate whether the smell is pleasant or unpleasant. For example, you wouldn't just say 'There is a smell' unless the context implies something obvious; instead, you would say 'There is a strange smell' (有一种奇怪的气味).

Common Structure 1: [Source] + 的 + 气味 (The smell of [Source]). Example: 咖啡的气味 (The smell of coffee).
Common Structure 2: [Adjective] + 的 + 气味 (A [Adjective] smell). Example: 难闻的气味 (An unpleasant smell).

我一进门就闻到了一股烧焦的气味。(Wǒ yī jìnmén jiù wéndàole yī gǔ shāojiāo de qìwèi.)

Translation: As soon as I entered the door, I smelled a burnt odor.

Notice the use of the measure word 股 (gǔ) in the example above. In Chinese, smells are often quantified using 股, which is used for things that flow or come in whiffs, like air, wind, or smells. Using the correct measure word significantly increases your fluency. Another common verb is 弥漫 (mímàn), which means 'to permeate' or 'to fill the air.' You might say, 'The smell of perfume permeated the room' (香水的气味弥漫在房间里). When describing the intensity, you can use 浓烈 (nóngliè - strong/intense) or 淡 (dàn - faint/light).

这种花在夜间会散发出甜美的气味。(Zhè zhǒng huā zài yèjiān huì sànfā chū tiánměi de qìwèi.)

Translation: This kind of flower emits a sweet smell at night.

Abstract Usage: Used in literature to describe the 'smell' of an era or a city. Example: 这座城市有一种古老的气味 (This city has an ancient smell/atmosphere).

狗的嗅觉非常灵敏，能分辨出成千上万种气味。(Gǒu de xiùjué fēicháng língmǐn, néng fēnbiàn chū chéng qiān shàng wàn zhǒng qìwèi.)

Translation: A dog's sense of smell is very sensitive and can distinguish thousands of odors.

In contemporary Chinese life, 气味 appears in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from the mundane to the highly specialized. If you are walking through a traditional wet market in Shanghai or Beijing, you might hear a vendor describing the 'smell of freshness' (新鲜的气味) of their produce. In a more modern setting, like a high-end shopping mall, you'll see the word on the packaging of perfumes, candles, and skincare products. The fragrance industry in China often uses 气味 as a professional term for 'notes' or 'scent profiles.' For instance, a product might be described as having a 'woody smell' (木质气味) or a 'floral smell' (花香气味).

In the Kitchen: Home cooks use it to check if food is still fresh. '闻闻有没有坏了的气味' (Smell it to see if there's a spoiled odor).
In Science Class: Students are taught to describe gases by their 'colorless and odorless' (无色无味) properties, where '味' here refers to '气味'.

新装修的房子里总有一股油漆的气味。(Xīn zhuāngxiū de fángzi lǐ zǒng yǒu yī gǔ yóuqī de qìwèi.)

Translation: A newly renovated house always has the smell of paint.

You will also encounter 气味 frequently in news reports and documentaries, particularly those concerning the environment or public health. If there is a gas leak or chemical spill, the broadcaster will warn residents about an 'unusual smell' (异常气味). In nature documentaries, narrators explain how animals use 气味 for communication, marking territory, or finding mates. The word is indispensable for describing the biological world. Furthermore, in the realm of wine tasting (品酒), experts might discuss the complex 'aromatic profile' (气味特征) of a vintage, using it to identify notes of oak, fruit, or earth.

这种植物的气味可以驱赶蚊虫。(Zhè zhǒng zhíwù de qìwèi kěyǐ qūgǎn wénchóng.)

Translation: The smell of this plant can repel mosquitoes and insects.

Daily Life: Used when doing laundry (smell of detergent), cleaning (smell of bleach), or walking past a bakery (smell of bread).

夏天的雨后，空气中弥漫着清新的草木气味。(Xiàtiān de yǔ hòu, kōngqì zhōng mímànzhe qīngxīn de cǎomù qìwèi.)

Translation: After a summer rain, the air is filled with the fresh smell of vegetation.

One of the most frequent hurdles for English speakers learning Chinese is distinguishing between 气味 (qìwèi) and 味道 (wèidào). In English, we often use 'smell' and 'taste' interchangeably in casual speech (e.g., 'This soup smells/tastes good'). However, in Chinese, the distinction is more rigid. 气味 is strictly for the nose—it refers to the airborne particles that trigger our olfactory senses. 味道, on the other hand, primarily refers to 'flavor' or 'taste' (perceived by the tongue), though it can also be used for 'smell' in informal, everyday contexts. The mistake occurs when students use 气味 to describe the flavor of food while eating it. You would never say 'This apple has a sweet 气味' while chewing it; you would use 味道.

Mistake: Using 气味 for Taste: Incorrect: 这个汤的气味很咸 (This soup's smell is very salty). Saltiness is a taste, not an airborne odor.
Mistake: Confusing with Specific Terms: Learners often forget that 香味 (fragrance) and 臭味 (stink) are more descriptive. Using '气味' for a rose is okay, but '香味' is more natural.

不要把化学品的气味和食品的味道混淆。(Bùyào bǎ huàxué pǐn de qìwèi hé shípǐn de wèidào hùnxiáo.)

Translation: Don't confuse the smell of chemicals with the taste of food.

Another common error is treating 气味 as a verb. In English, 'smell' is both a noun ('The smell is bad') and a verb ('I smell the milk'). In Chinese, 气味 is exclusively a noun. To express the action of smelling, you must use the verb 闻 (wén). A student might mistakenly say '我气味那个花' (I smell that flower), which is grammatically nonsensical. The correct form is '我闻到了那个花的气味.' Additionally, pay attention to the measure word. While you can use 种 (zhǒng) for 'types' of smells, you should use 股 (gǔ) for a specific 'whiff' or 'stream' of smell. Using 个 (ge) as a measure word for 气味 is a sign of a beginner level and should be avoided as you progress to B1.

这股怪气味是从地下室传出来的。(Zhè gǔ guài qìwèi shì cóng dìxiàshì chuán chūlái de.)

Translation: This strange smell is coming from the basement.

Collocation Error: Using '漂亮' (beautiful) to describe a smell. Use '好闻' (good to smell) or '清香' (fresh fragrance) instead.

虽然这种水果气味难闻，但味道很好。(Suīrán zhè zhǒng shuǐguǒ qìwèi nánwén, dàn wèidào hěn hǎo.)

Translation: Although this fruit has an unpleasant smell, it tastes very good (Perfect example of the distinction!).

To truly master the vocabulary of the senses, you need to know how 气味 compares to its synonyms and related terms. While 气味 is neutral, Chinese offers a rich palette of words to specify the nature of a scent. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to describe your experiences with greater precision. For example, if you are in a garden, using 气味 is fine, but using 花香 (huāxiāng - flower fragrance) is much more evocative. Similarly, if you are near a dumpster, 臭味 (chòuwèi - stink) is more accurate than the neutral 气味.

气味 (qìwèi) vs. 味道 (wèidào): 气味 is objective and only for smell. 味道 is subjective, can mean 'flavor', and is often used in a more casual, emotional way ('the taste/smell of home').
气味 (qìwèi) vs. 香味 (xiāngwèi): 香味 is specifically for pleasant, sweet, or fragrant smells (perfume, flowers, good food). 气味 includes both good and bad.
气味 (qìwèi) vs. 气息 (qìxī): 气息 is more abstract and literary. It often refers to the 'breath' or 'spirit' of something, like 'the breath of spring' (春天的气息) or 'the aura of life' (生活的气息).

香水的气味太浓了，让我打喷嚏。(Xiāngshuǐ de qìwèi tài nóngle, ràng wǒ dǎ pēntì.)

Translation: The smell of the perfume is too strong; it makes me sneeze.

In formal or scientific writing, you might encounter 嗅觉 (xiùjué), which refers to the 'sense of smell' itself rather than the odor. If you are describing a scent that is barely perceptible, you can use 幽香 (yōuxiāng - faint fragrance). If it is a bad smell that makes you gag, 异味 (yìwèi - strange/off-odor) is a common term used by property managers or mechanics to describe something that shouldn't be there. Choosing the right word depends on your intent: are you being a scientist (气味), a poet (气息), a chef (味道), or a critic (臭味)?

这种药草有一种独特的清香气味。(Zhè zhǒng yàocǎo yǒu yī zhǒng dútè de qīngxiāng qìwèi.)

Translation: This herb has a unique fresh and fragrant smell.

Functional Alternative: 闻起来 (wén qǐlái): Verb phrase meaning 'to smell like...'. Example: 这花闻起来很香 (This flower smells very fragrant).

空气中充满了火药的气味。(Kōngqì zhōng chōngmǎnle huǒyào de qìwèi.)

Translation: The air was filled with the smell of gunpowder.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Chinese philosophy, '气' (Qi) is the life force that flows through everything. Thus, '气味' is not just a physical smell but the 'energy' an object or person gives off.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɕʰi⁵¹ weɪ⁵¹/

US /tɕʰi⁵¹ weɪ⁵¹/

Both syllables are equally stressed as they both carry the fourth tone.

Rhymes With

细味 (xìwèi) 趣味 (qùwèi) 意味 (yìwèi) 入味 (rùwèi) 美味 (měiwèi) 香味 (xiāngwèi) 臭味 (chòuwèi) 体味 (tǐwèi)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'qi' like 'key' (it should be 'chee').
Ignoring the fourth tone and making it flat.
Confusing 'wei' with 'wai'.
Pronouncing 'qì' without the aspirated 'ch' sound.
Mixing up the tones, which can change the meaning entirely.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are relatively common, but '气' and '味' have many other uses.

Writing 4/5

The character '味' can be tricky to write correctly with the proper stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce once the 'q' sound and tones are mastered.

Listening 3/5

Needs to be distinguished from '味道' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

气 (air) 味 (taste) 闻 (to smell) 好 (good) 香 (fragrant)

Learn Next

味道 (taste/flavor) 气息 (breath/aura) 嗅觉 (sense of smell) 散发 (to emit) 刺鼻 (pungent)

Advanced

馥郁 (strongly fragrant) 沁人心脾 (refreshing) 腥臭 (fishy and stinking) 芬芳 (fragrance)

Grammar to Know

Measure Word '股' (gǔ)

一股淡淡的清香。

Resultative Verb '闻到' (wéndào)

我闻到了面包的气味。

The '...的' Structure for Nouns

咖啡的气味。

Adjective Reduplication (AABB) for smells

香喷喷的气味 (xiāng pēnpēn).

Potential Complement with '闻'

闻得出 / 闻不出 (can/cannot distinguish by smell).

Examples by Level

这是什么气味？

What is this smell?

Simple question structure: Subject + 是 + what + noun.

花的气味很好。

The smell of flowers is very good.

Noun + 的 + Noun (Possessive/Descriptive structure).

我不喜欢这个气味。

I don't like this smell.

Negative sentence: Subject + 不 + verb + object.

咖啡的气味很香。

The smell of coffee is very fragrant.

香 (xiāng) is a common adjective for pleasant smells.

这里有奇怪的气味。

There is a strange smell here.

这里 (here) + 有 (has/there is) + adjective + noun.

妈妈的衣服上有她的气味。

Mother's clothes have her smell on them.

Location + 上 + 有 + noun.

这种气味不难闻。

This smell is not unpleasant.

难闻 (nánwén) means 'hard to smell' (unpleasant).

我闻到了气味。

I smelled a smell.

闻到 (wéndào) is the resultative verb for 'to smell'.

厨房里有一股好闻的气味。

There is a pleasant smell in the kitchen.

Introduction of the measure word '股' (gǔ) for smells.

这种花的气味很特别。

The smell of this flower is very special.

Using '特别' (tèbié) as a modifier.

新书有一种特别的气味。

New books have a special smell.

Noun + 有 + 种 + adjective + noun.

他不喜欢医院的气味。

He doesn't like the smell of hospitals.

Expressing preference about specific locations.

雨后的空气里有泥土的气味。

There is the smell of soil in the air after rain.

Time phrase (雨后) + Location (空气里) + 有 + noun.

这只狗正在闻地上的气味。

This dog is smelling the scent on the ground.

Continuous action: 正在 + verb.

那种气味让我觉得不舒服。

That smell makes me feel uncomfortable.

Causative structure: 让 (ràng) + person + verb/adj.

香水的气味能持续很久。

The smell of perfume can last a long time.

能 (can) + 持续 (last) + time duration.

地下室里散发出一股霉味和潮湿的气味。

The basement emits a musty and damp smell.

Verb '散发出' (sànfā chū) - to emit/give off.

这种化学药品的气味非常刺鼻，请戴上口罩。

The smell of this chemical is very pungent; please wear a mask.

Adjective '刺鼻' (cìbí) - pungent/stinging the nose.

虽然榴莲的气味很难闻，但吃起来很香。

Although the smell of durian is unpleasant, it tastes delicious.

Contrast structure: 虽然...但是... (suīrán...dànshì...).

警察通过气味找到了失踪的人。

The police found the missing person through scent.

Preposition '通过' (tōngguò) - through/by means of.

森林里弥漫着松树的清香气味。

The forest is permeated with the fresh fragrance of pine trees.

Verb '弥漫着' (mímànzhe) - to permeate/fill the air.

这种洗发水的气味能让人放松。

The smell of this shampoo can make people relax.

让人 (make people) + verb (relax).

他能分辨出各种不同酒的气味。

He can distinguish the smells of various different wines.

Verb '分辨出' (fēnbiàn chū) - to distinguish/identify.

这间老房子里有一种岁月的气味。

There is a smell of time in this old house.

Metaphorical use of '气味' to describe atmosphere.

这种植物通过散发独特的气味来吸引昆虫传粉。

This plant attracts insects for pollination by emitting a unique scent.

Structure: 通过...来... (tōngguò...lái...) - by [method] to [purpose].

这种气味勾起了我对童年生活的美好回忆。

This smell evoked beautiful memories of my childhood life.

Verb '勾起' (gōuqǐ) - to evoke/call up.

由于通风不良，房间里充满了油烟的气味。

Due to poor ventilation, the room was filled with the smell of cooking fumes.

Cause and effect: 由于... (yóuyú) - due to/because of.

实验室里弥漫着一种令人不安的化学气味。

An unsettling chemical smell permeated the laboratory.

令人 (lìng rén) + adjective - making one feel [adjective].

这两种气味混合在一起，产生了一种奇妙的效果。

These two smells mixed together to produce a wonderful effect.

混合 (hùnhé) - to mix/blend.

某种动物会利用气味来标记自己的领地。

Certain animals use scent to mark their territory.

利用 (lìyòng) - to utilize/use.

这种气味非常淡，几乎闻不到。

This smell is very faint, almost undetectable.

几乎 (jīhū) - almost; 闻不到 - cannot smell (potential complement).

他觉得这个计划带有一种危险的气味。

He felt that this plan carried a scent of danger.

Metaphorical use: 带有...的气味 (to carry the scent of...).

作家用细腻的笔触描述了小镇清晨那清新的气味。

The author described the fresh smell of the small town at dawn with delicate brushstrokes.

Literary use: 细腻的笔触 (delicate description/brushstrokes).

这种陈年普洱茶散发出一种陈旧而醇厚的气味。

This aged Pu'er tea emits an old yet mellow aroma.

Describing aged products: 陈旧 (aged/old) and 醇厚 (mellow/rich).

空气中交织着皮革、烟草和老旧书籍的气味。

The air was interwoven with the smells of leather, tobacco, and old books.

Verb '交织' (jiāozhī) - to interweave/mingle.

这种气味不仅是物理上的存在，更是一种文化符号。

This smell is not just a physical existence, but also a cultural symbol.

Not only... but also...: 不仅是...更是... (bùjǐn shì... gèng shì...).

他敏锐地察觉到空气中那一丝若有若无的焦糊气味。

He keenly noticed that faint, almost imperceptible smell of burning in the air.

若有若无 (ruò yǒu ruò wú) - seemingly there, seemingly not (faint).

这种气味的独特性在于它那种难以言表的泥土气息。

The uniqueness of this smell lies in its indescribable earthy aura.

在于 (zàiyú) - lies in/consists of; 难以言表 - hard to describe in words.

在繁华的都市中，很难再闻到那种纯净的自然气味。

In the bustling city, it is difficult to smell that pure natural scent anymore.

很难再 (hěn nán zài) - difficult to [verb] again.

这种气味已经深深地烙印在他的记忆深处。

This smell has been deeply branded into the depths of his memory.

烙印 (làoyìn) - to brand/imprint.

该地区的空气质量监测报告指出，异常气味源于附近的化工厂。

The air quality monitoring report for the area stated that the abnormal odor originated from a nearby chemical plant.

Formal/Scientific register: 源于 (yuányú) - to originate from.

通过气味指纹技术，科学家可以精确地识别出物质的成分。

Through scent fingerprinting technology, scientists can accurately identify the components of a substance.

Technical term: 气味指纹 (scent fingerprinting).

这部小说通过对各种气味的铺陈，构建了一个感官丰富的虚构世界。

The novel constructs a sensory-rich fictional world through the elaborate presentation of various smells.

Literary analysis: 铺陈 (pūchén) - to detail/elaborate.

这种气味在空间中的扩散遵循着复杂的流体力学原理。

The diffusion of this smell in space follows complex fluid dynamics principles.

Academic register: 遵循 (zūnxún) - to follow/abide by.

尽管气味是无形的，但它在人类社交互动中起着潜移默化的作用。

Although smell is invisible, it plays a subtle and profound role in human social interaction.

Idiom: 潜移默化 (qiányí-mòhuà) - exerting a subtle influence.

嗅觉受体对气味分子的捕获是一个高度特异性的生物化学过程。

The capture of odor molecules by olfactory receptors is a highly specific biochemical process.

Scientific terminology: 嗅觉受体 (olfactory receptor).

这种气味的层次感极其丰富，初闻是清爽，后调则是深沉的木香。

The layering of this scent is extremely rich; the initial impression is refreshing, while the base notes are deep woody tones.

在某些极端环境下，气味的辨识度成为了生存的关键因素。

In certain extreme environments, the discernibility of smells becomes a key factor for survival.

Formal abstraction: 辨识度 (discernibility/recognition level).

Common Collocations

一股气味

散发气味

闻到气味

刺鼻的气味

独特的气味

难闻的气味

好闻的气味

分辨气味

残留的气味

清新的气味

Common Phrases

气味相投

— To have similar tastes or temperaments. Used to describe people who get along well, sometimes with a negative nuance.

他们两个气味相投，很快就成了好朋友。

异常气味

— Abnormal or unusual smell. Often used in safety warnings.

如果闻到异常气味，请立即离开。

体味

— Body odor. A specific type of qìwèi.

运动后会有体味。

火药味

— The smell of gunpowder. Often used metaphorically to describe a tense situation.

这场会议充满了火药味。

生活气味

— The 'smell of life.' Usually refers to the mundane, cozy smells of a home.

这间屋子很有生活气味。

书卷气味

— The smell of books. Also used to describe someone who looks scholarly.

他身上有一种淡淡的书卷气味。

泥土气味

— The smell of soil or earth.

我喜欢下雨后泥土的气味。

化学气味

— Chemical smell.

工厂附近总是有化学气味。

这种气味

— This kind of smell.

我不喜欢这种气味。

各种气味

— Various kinds of smells.

市场上充满了各种气味。

Often Confused With

气味 vs 味道 (wèidào)

味道 can mean taste or smell; 气味 is only smell.

气味 vs 气息 (qìxī)

气息 is more abstract (breath/aura); 气味 is physical.

气味 vs 口味 (kǒuwèi)

口味 refers to a person's preference in taste/flavor.

Idioms & Expressions

"气味相投"

— To share the same tastes or be like-minded (often used for people with bad habits).

那几个小混混气味相投，整天混在一起。

Colloquial/Slightly derogatory

"臭味相投"

— To be two of a kind (in a bad way). Stronger than 气味相投.

他们真是臭味相投，一起干坏事。

Derogatory

"无色无味"

— Colorless and odorless. Used to describe gases like oxygen.

氧气是无色无味的气体。

Scientific

"闻味而至"

— To come upon smelling something (usually food).

猫咪闻味而至，想吃鱼。

Informal

"余味无穷"

— Leaving a lasting and pleasant aftertaste (can be smell, taste, or a thought).

这首诗读完让人余味无穷。

Literary

"铜臭味"

— The 'stink of money.' Used to describe someone excessively greedy.

他身上充满了铜臭味。

Derogatory

"烟火气"

— The smell of cooking smoke. Metaphorically means 'down-to-earth' or 'everyday life.'

我最喜欢这种有烟火气的小巷子。

Literary/Positive

"寻味"

— To ponder or reflect on something (literally 'seeking the taste').

他的话值得仔细寻味。

Literary

"风味"

— Local flavor or style (often includes the smell).

这家餐厅有地道的北京风味。

General

"五味杂陈"

— A mix of the five flavors. Metaphorically means mixed emotions.

看到老照片，他心里五味杂陈。

Literary

Easily Confused

气味 vs 味道

Both can mean 'smell'.

味道 is subjective and includes taste; 气味 is objective and only smell.

这汤味道很好 (tastes good); 这花气味很好 (smells good).

气味 vs 香味

Both refer to smells.

香味 is always positive; 气味 is neutral.

香水的气味 (neutral description); 香水的香味 (positive description).

气味 vs 臭味

Both refer to smells.

臭味 is always negative; 气味 is neutral.

垃圾的气味 (neutral); 垃圾的臭味 (negative).

气味 vs 气息

Related to air and smell.

气息 is metaphorical/literary; 气味 is literal.

春天的气息 (feeling of spring); 春天的气味 (smell of spring flowers).

气味 vs 嗅觉

Related to smelling.

嗅觉 is the sense (ability); 气味 is the object (the smell itself).

他的嗅觉很灵敏; 他闻到了气味。

Sentence Patterns

这是什么气味？

[Source] 的气味很 [Adjective]。

花的气味很好看。

空气中弥漫着 [Noun] 的气味。

空气中弥漫着泥土的气味。

我闻到了一股 [Adjective] 的气味。

我闻到了一股奇怪的气味。

[Noun] 散发出一种 [Adjective] 的气味。

这种草药散发出一种苦涩的气味。

这种气味勾起了我对 [Memory] 的回忆。

这种气味勾起了我对家乡的回忆。

那种 [Adjective] 的气味至今仍留在我的记忆里。

那种淡雅的气味至今仍留在我的记忆里。

该物质的气味特征表现为 [Description]。

该物质的气味特征表现为强烈的刺激性。

Word Family

Nouns

气味 (smell)

味道 (taste/flavor)

气息 (breath/aura)

嗅觉 (sense of smell)

Verbs

闻 (to smell)

嗅 (to sniff/scent)

散发 (to emit)

弥漫 (to permeate)

Adjectives

好闻 (pleasant-smelling)

难闻 (unpleasant-smelling)

有味 (having a smell/taste)

无味 (odorless/tasteless)

鼻子 (nose)

香水 (perfume)

空气 (air)

感觉 (feeling/sensation)

回忆 (memory)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written Chinese.

Common Mistakes

Using '气味' as a verb. → 我闻到了气味。
'气味' is a noun. Use '闻' (wén) for the action of smelling.
Using '气味' to mean 'flavor' while eating. → 这个菜的味道很好。
'气味' is only for the nose. Use '味道' for taste.
Using the measure word '个' for smell. → 一种气味 / 一股气味
'股' (gǔ) is the specific measure word for whiffs of air or smell.
Saying '漂亮的气味'. → 好闻的气味 / 香的气味
'漂亮' (beautiful) is for sight. Use '好闻' (pleasant to smell) for odors.
Confusing '气味' and '气息' in literal contexts. → 花朵的气味。
'气息' is usually for abstract things like 'breath of life' or 'spirit of the times'.

Tips

Use the right measure word

Always try to use '股' (gǔ) when describing a specific smell you just noticed. It makes your Chinese sound much more natural than using '个'.

Distinguish from 味道

Remember: Nose = 气味, Tongue = 味道. If you can't taste it, don't use 味道 in formal writing.

Metaphorical use

Don't be afraid to use '气味' for abstract things like 'danger' or 'politics' in a literary context. It adds depth to your writing.

Tone practice

Both characters in '气味' are 4th tone. Practice them with a short, sharp downward breath to sound authentic.

Identify the source

When you hear '气味', the speaker is usually about to identify the source (e.g., '...的气味'). Focus on the noun before '的'.

Adjective placement

Adjectives usually come before '气味' (e.g., 奇怪的气味) or are linked with '很' (e.g., 气味很奇怪).

Neutrality

Since '气味' is neutral, always provide a modifier unless the context makes the quality obvious.

Character breakdown

Think of '气' as 'gas' and '味' as 'scent'. It's the 'gas-scent' of an object.

Daily observation

Every time you smell something today, try to say the name of the object + '的气味' in your head.

Formal vs Informal

In a lab, use '气味'. In a kitchen with friends, '味道' is often okay too.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Qi' as the 'air' around you and 'Wei' as the 'way' it smells. 'Air-Way' = Smell.

Visual Association

Imagine a cloud of steam (气) rising from a bowl of soup that has a strong taste (味). The steam carries the smell to your nose.

Word Web

鼻子 (Nose) 空气 (Air) 香 (Fragrant) 臭 (Stinky) 闻 (Smell - Verb) 花 (Flower) 咖啡 (Coffee) 记忆 (Memory)

Challenge

Try to describe three different things in your room right now using '...的气味'. For example: '书的气味' (The smell of books).

Word Origin

The word is a compound of two ancient Chinese characters. '气' originally represented rising steam or clouds, later evolving to mean air or vital energy. '味' consists of the 'mouth' radical (口) and '未' (originally representing a tree with many branches, used here phonetically or to suggest flavor). Together, they form a concept of 'the flavor of the air.'

Original meaning: The airborne essence or vapor that can be tasted or smelled.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

Be careful when describing people's '气味' (body odor), as it can be offensive, just as in English. Use '体味' for a more neutral/medical term or '汗味' for the smell of sweat.

English speakers often distinguish between 'scent' (positive) and 'odor' (negative). In Chinese, '气味' covers both, similar to the word 'smell' in English.

The novel 'Big Breasts and Wide Hips' by Mo Yan, which uses sensory descriptions, including smells, to depict history. The concept of 'Xiangdao' (香道) - the art of appreciating incense. Traditional poems from the Tang Dynasty often mention the 'qìwèi' of plum blossoms in the snow.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cooking

饭菜的气味
烧焦的气味
香料的气味
闻闻气味

Nature

花朵的气味
森林的气味
雨后的气味
泥土的气味

Science/Safety

化学气味
异常气味
无色无味
刺鼻的气味

Personal Care

香水的气味
肥皂的气味
洗发水的气味
淡淡的气味

Shopping

皮革的气味
新车的气味
新衣服的气味
挑选气味

Conversation Starters

"你最喜欢的花是什么气味？"

"你觉得下雨后的气味好闻吗？"

"你闻到了什么奇怪的气味吗？"

"这种香水的气味是不是太浓了？"

"你喜欢老书的气味还是新书的气味？"

Journal Prompts

描述一下你童年家里的气味，它让你想起了什么？

写一写今天你在公园里闻到的各种气味。

如果一种颜色有气味，你觉得蓝色是什么气味的？

描述一个你觉得最难忘的气味，为什么它这么特别？

讨论一下为什么气味对我们的记忆如此重要。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but only to describe how the food smells in the air. If you are talking about how it tastes in your mouth, you must use '味道'.

By itself, yes. You need to add adjectives like '好闻' (good) or '难闻' (bad) to give it a positive or negative meaning.

'气味儿' (qìwèir) is the same word but with the 'er-hua' suffix, which is common in Northern China and sounds more casual.

No. You cannot say 'I 气味 the flower.' You must say 'I 闻 (smell) the flower' or 'The flower's 气味 is good.'

The most common measure word is '股' (gǔ), used for a puff or whiff of smell. '种' (zhǒng) is also used for 'types' of smells.

Yes, it is the standard term used in chemistry and biology to describe the odor of substances.

You say '无气味' (wú qìwèi) or '无味' (wúwèi).

Metaphorically, yes. For example, '危险的气味' means 'a scent of danger,' implying a certain atmosphere.

It is an idiom meaning people who have similar tastes or characters, often used to describe people who are 'two of a kind' in a slightly negative way.

Yes, it typically appears around the HSK 4 or HSK 5 level (CEFR B1/B2).