Come out smelling like a rose Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To leave a difficult or problematic situation with your reputation intact or looking good, especially when others expected you to be harmed.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom often used when someone manages, sometimes surprisingly, to avoid negative consequences. It can imply skill, luck, or others' misfortune. Compared with related phrases like 'get off scot-free,' this idiom often adds a sense of admiration for coming out ahead in reputation.
Example Sentences
She was blamed for the error, but she came out smelling like a rose.
basic
After the investigation, he came out smelling like a rose.
basic
Despite the rumors, the politician came out smelling like a rose.
basic
Everyone thought Mark would lose his job, but he came out smelling like a rose after the meeting.
natural
No one expected the company to recover, but they came out smelling like a rose after all the challenges.
natural
He made some risky decisions, but in the end, he came out smelling like a rose.
natural