he who smelt it dealt it
This humorous phrase suggests that someone who points out an issue, especially an unpleasant smell, is likely the one responsible for it.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2General
(colloquial, humorous)The person who first notices or complains about an unpleasant smell is likely the one who caused it.
Example
- When John complained about the smell in the room, Sarah laughed and said, 'He who smelt it dealt it!'
B2General
(colloquial, humorous)Someone who highlights or complains about a problem may actually be the one responsible for it.
Example
- Tom accused Jerry of breaking the vase, but Jerry retorted, 'He who smelt it dealt it!'