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

1. 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.

2. 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

1. 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
2. have as a by-product
   • The big cities gave off so many wonderful American qualities