godan verb (-u), intransitive verb
smell good; be fragrant
Describes a pleasant scent. The kanji 匂う is strongly preferred for this meaning.
台所からカレーのいい匂いがする。
A nice smell of curry is coming from the kitchen.
godan verb (-u), intransitive verb
stink; smell bad
Describes an unpleasant odor. The kanji 臭う is the usual choice for this sense.
生ゴミが臭うので早く捨ててください。
The garbage is stinking, so please take it out quickly.
godan verb (-u), intransitive verb
Rare, literary use describing something shining or glowing, often with a warm or beautiful nuance. Not used for ordinary brightness.
夕日に匂う山々の景色は息をのむ美しさだ。
The mountains glowing in the evening sun are breathtakingly beautiful.
godan verb (-u), intransitive verb
smack of; hint at
Figurative use: something gives off a certain impression or atmosphere, often negative or suspicious. Common in phrases like 犯罪の匂いがする.
彼の話にはどうも嘘の匂いがする。
His story somehow smacks of a lie.