"Can you smell paint?" vs "Can you smell a paint?"

Question

"Can you smell paint?" vs "Can you smell a paint?"

The correct phrase is "Can you smell paint?" The use of the article 'a' before 'paint' is not necessary in this context. 'Paint' is a non-count noun, so it does not require an article before it.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to ask someone if they can detect the odor of paint in the air.

Examples:

Can you smell paint in the room?
I can smell paint coming from the garage.
She asked, 'Can you smell paint on this canvas?'
The room reeked of fresh paint, 'Can you smell paint?' she asked.
He wondered, 'Can you smell paint from the art studio?'

Alternatives:

Do you smell paint?
Are you able to smell paint?
Is the smell of paint noticeable to you?
Can you detect the scent of paint?
Are you picking up the smell of paint?

Answer 1

Can you smell paint?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

Can you smell a paint?

This phrase is incorrect. 'Paint' is a non-count noun and does not require an article before it.

"Can you smell paint?" vs "Can you smell a paint?"

Can you smell paint?

Can you smell a paint?

Related Comparisons