give off
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: 1. To emit, release, or discharge something: To send out or produce something, such as light, heat, a smell, vapor, or radiation. 2. To produce or have as a by-product or consequence: To result in or be characterized by a particular quality or effect.
Usage
The verb "give off" is a transitive phrasal verb. It requires a direct object (the thing being emitted or produced). It is commonly used in both scientific/technical contexts (e.g., describing chemical reactions, physics) and in everyday descriptions (e.g., smells, feelings).
Examples
Emitting Physical Substances or Energy:
- The flowers give off a lovely fragrance.
- A chemical reaction can give off heat and light.
- The sun gives off vast amounts of energy.
- The old engine was giving off black smoke.
Producing an Abstract Quality or Impression:
- The situation gives off an air of mystery.
- He gives off a sense of confidence.
- The city gave off an exciting, vibrant energy.
Advanced Usage
- "give off the impression that...": To cause others to believe something, often unintentionally.
- Her silence gave off the impression that she was angry.
Variants and Related Words
- Emit (verb): A more formal synonym, often used in technical writing.
- Release (verb): To allow something to escape or be freed.
- Exude (verb): To discharge or display (something) slowly and steadily, often used for liquids, smells, or qualities like confidence.
- Give out (phrasal verb): Can be a synonym for "emit," especially in British English (e.g., "The radiator gives out a lot of heat"). It also has other meanings like "to distribute" or "to stop working."
Synonyms
- Emit
- Discharge
- Release
- Exude
- Radiate (especially for light or heat)
- Produce
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Give out: See 'Variants and Related Words' above.
- Give forth: A more literary or formal synonym for "give off" (e.g., ).
Related Idioms
- Give off bad/good vibes: (Informal) To seem to have an unpleasant or pleasant atmosphere or feeling.
- That empty house gives off bad vibes.
- She gives off such good vibes; everyone likes being around her.
Verb
- give off, send forth, or discharge; as of light, heat, or radiation, vapor, etc.
- The ozone layer blocks some harmful rays which the sun emits
- have as a by-product
- The big cities gave off so many wonderful American qualities