Smell to High Heaven, To
Definition: To stink; to be thoroughly contemptible, dishonest, or in very bad repute. The phrase emerges from the notion that if something can be smelled from an immeasurable distance (like heaven), it must strongly stink indeed.
Related Terms and Expressions
- Stink to high heaven: Another variation emphasizing the strong unpleasant odor.
- Reek of dishonesty: This emphasizes the association with dishonesty and low moral standing.
- Rank: Often used to describe something that has an overpowering disgusting smell, or something morally wrong.
- Fishy: Denoting something suspect or not quite right, often related to dishonest activities.
Synonyms
- Smelling rank
- Stinking to high heaven
- Reeking
- Odorous
- Putrid
Antonyms
- Fragrant
- Pleasant
- Aromatic
- Delightful scent
Quote
“Ah, there’s the rub! When something smells to high heaven, best you distance yourself before you start nose trouble!”
Related Proverbs
- “A bad apple spoils the whole barrel.”
- “Fish and visitors stink after three days.”
Recommended Reading
- Shakespeare’s Hamlet: For an extensive list of metaphors and eloquent expressions on morality and sin.
- Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind: A novel intensely focused on the sense of smell.
Song Recommendation
- Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana: An iconic anthem channeling youthful rebellion, confusion, and yes, odor.
Farewell Thought
May you always detect when something smells to high heaven, but remember that recognizing it’s just half the nose—sorry—battle!
Quizzes
### Which phrase means the same as "smell to high heaven"?
- [x] Reeks
- [ ] Sounds suspicious
- [ ] Seems peachy
- [ ] Tastes sweet
> **Explanation:** "Reeks" refers to a strong, unpleasant odor, similar to what "smells to high heaven" describes.
### True or False: 'Smell to high heaven' can mean both literally smelling bad and figuratively being corrupt.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! This idiom can be used to describe both foul physical smells and detestable actions or reputations.
### What did Shakespeare mean in Hamlet when he wrote, "O! my offence is rank, it smells to heaven"?
- [x] His guilt over his brother’s murder
- [ ] His gym socks were dirty
- [ ] He burnt the dinner
- [ ] He lost at chess
> **Explanation:** Correct, Shakespeare's line references guilt over a serious crime, portraying it as offensively strong and far-reaching.
### Which of these is a humorous way to describe something stinky?
- [x] It’s like a skunk took a bath in a dumpster.
- [ ] It’s as fresh as a daisy.
- [ ] It smells like spring rain.
- [ ] It’s as fragrant as a rose garden.
> **Explanation:** The first option is a vividly humorous exaggeration fitting the context of a strong, unpleasant smell.
### Pick the phrase that means the opposite of "smell to high heaven."
- [ ] Smells spicy
- [x] Piercingly fragrant
- [ ] Hums a tune
- [ ] Smells like teenage spirit
> **Explanation:** "Piercingly fragrant" represents a strong but pleasant smell, in direct contrast to the putrid "smell to high heaven."
