Whether or not you should tell a friend they smell is a tricky situation. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends heavily on your relationship with the friend, the potential cause of the smell, and how you approach the conversation. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Reasons to tell them:

• Kindness and Care: If the smell is something they’re unaware of and is likely to cause them embarrassment or social difficulties, telling them (discreetly and kindly) could be an act of friendship. Imagine if the situation were reversed.
• Health Concerns: Sometimes, body odor can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If you suspect this might be the case, it’s worth gently suggesting they consult a doctor.  
• Long-Term Relationship: If it’s a close friend you see regularly, the smell might become a constant distraction or even affect your willingness to spend time with them. Addressing it directly might be the best way to maintain the friendship.

Reasons not to tell them:

• Sensitivity and Embarrassment: Body odor is a very personal and sensitive subject. Telling someone they smell could be incredibly humiliating and damaging to their self-esteem.
• Uncertainty about the Cause: If you’re not sure where the smell is coming from (e.g., it could be their clothes, their environment, etc.), you might be misattributing it to them.
• Fear of Damaging the Friendship: Depending on your friend’s personality and how you deliver the message, it could cause a rift in the relationship.
• It’s a One-Off: If it seems like a temporary issue (e.g., they just came from the gym), it’s probably best to let it go.

If you decide to tell them, here’s how to do it:

• Private and Discreet: Choose a private setting where you can talk without being overheard.
• Kind and Empathetic: Approach the conversation with kindness and understanding. Avoid accusatory language.
• Focus on Concern: Frame your concern in terms of wanting to help them avoid potential embarrassment.
• Be Specific (but Gentle): If possible, be specific about what you’ve noticed, but avoid being overly descriptive. For example, “I’ve noticed a slight body odor lately” is better than “You really smell sweaty.”
• Offer Solutions (if appropriate): You could suggest things like using a stronger deodorant or washing clothes more frequently, but only if it feels natural and helpful.  
• Respect Their Reaction: Be prepared for them to be upset or defensive. Listen to their response and avoid arguing.
• Leave it at That: Once you’ve said your piece, don’t dwell on it. Change the subject and move on.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to tell your friend is yours. Carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks, and consider your relationship with the person before making a choice.