Buenas tardes Silvia y Inma,
I do understand the use of 'sentir' instead of 'oler' when referring to the 'being able to smell the aroma'. I was wondering though if 'sentir' is used in mainland Spain as well as in Latin America? Also, is 'sentir' used with any other of the 'senses', i.e. to touch, etc.?
Gracias.
Hola Clara M.
Great question! Yes, in Spanish, "sentir" can sometimes be used instead of "oler" when referring to perceiving a smell, particularly when emphasizing the experience of detecting an aroma rather than the act of smelling itself. This usage is common in both Spain and Latin America, though "oler" remains the standard verb for talking about smells.
As for other senses, "sentir" is primarily used for touch (e.g., sentir el frío en la piel – 'to feel the cold on the skin') and for general perception or emotions (e.g., sentir la música – 'to feel the music' or sentir miedo – 'to feel fear'). However, it is not commonly used for sight or hearing; in those cases, verbs like ver (to see) and oír (to hear) are preferred.
¡Que pases un buen finde!
Silvia
Buenas tardes Silvia y Inma,
I do understand the use of 'sentir' instead of 'oler' when referring to the 'being able to smell the aroma'. I was wondering though if 'sentir' is used in mainland Spain as well as in Latin America? Also, is 'sentir' used with any other of the 'senses', i.e. to touch, etc.?
Gracias.
Don't have an account yet? Join today
Test your Spanish to the CEFR standard
Find your Spanish level