sweet smell of success: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "sweet smell of success" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It conveys a positive and desirable outcome, often associated with achieving personal or professional goals.

It gained popularity through its usage in the title of a successful 1957 film, "Sweet Smell of Success," directed by Alexander Mackendrick. The film depicted the dark side of ambition and the allure of power in the world of press and show business.

The etymology of the idiom can be traced back to the concept of smell and its metaphorical connection to success. A pleasant scent is often associated with positive experiences and outcomes.

The use of the word "sweet" enhances its positive connotations. "Sweet" typically denotes something delightful, pleasurable, or desirable, which reinforces the idea of attaining a favorable outcome.

Additionally, the idiom's widespread usage and cultural significance can be observed in various contexts. It is frequently employed in discussions about personal achievements, professional accomplishments, and even in the world of entertainment and sports.

The idiom's figurative nature relies on metaphor to convey its meaning. The "sweet smell" becomes a substitute for the positive outcomes associated with success, creating an evocative and memorable expression.

Furthermore, the idiom reflects the human desire for achievement and recognition. The sweet smell of success symbolizes the satisfaction of reaching one's goals, the validation of one's efforts, and the rewards that come with it.

on top of the world, the idiom represents the feeling of being at the pinnacle of success and experiencing a sense of elation. When someone achieves their goals and accomplishments, they can truly feel on top of the world.

Smelling like a rose is another idiom that relates to the sweet smell of success. It means to be in a favorable or successful position, often with a positive reputation. When someone succeeds and achieves their goals, they can metaphorically "smell like a rose."

The smell of the shop is another related idiomatic phrase that can be associated with the sweet smell of success. It refers to the aroma or atmosphere of a place of business or work. When someone achieves success, their workplace or business may have a positive and inviting atmosphere, which can be metaphorically represented by the smell of the shop.

Another idiom related to the sweet smell of success is "good job." This expression is used to acknowledge and praise someone for a job well done. When someone achieves success, they have done a good job in reaching their goals and attaining favorable outcomes.

Lastly, the idiom "smell of the lamp" can also be associated with the sweet smell of success. It refers to the evidence of hard work and dedication put into achieving success. When someone achieves their goals and experiences success, it is often the result of their diligent efforts, symbolized by the "smell of the lamp."

The idiom "sweet smell of success" represents the desire for achievement and the positive outcomes associated with personal or professional goals. Its metaphorical nature, cultural significance, and representation of human aspirations make it a widely recognized and utilized expression. However, it also alludes to the potential downsides and trade-offs that success may entail. This multifaceted idiom invites contemplation of the complexities and nuances inherent in the pursuit of success, leaving room for personal interpretation and reflection.