Come up smelling like a rose Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If someone 'comes up smelling like a rose', they get through a difficult or controversial situation looking innocent or untarnished, even if they may have been involved in something questionable.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom, often used in business, politics, or gossip. Suggests luck, cleverness, or manipulation. Commonly implies others expected a negative result, but the person avoided blame. Not literal—no real connection to roses.
Example Sentences
Despite the scandal, she came up smelling like a rose.
basic
They made some mistakes but came up smelling like a rose in the end.
basic
He lied to everyone and still came up smelling like a rose.
basic
No matter what happens, he always comes up smelling like a rose.
natural
Everyone thought he'd get fired, but he came up smelling like a rose instead!
natural
Somehow the company came up smelling like a rose after the lawsuit.
natural