Translation guide
The English phrase "give off" means to emit or produce something like light, heat, smell, or a feeling. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being emitted.
To produce and send out light, heat, sound, or similar physical phenomena.
A general verb for emitting or releasing something, often used for light, heat, sound, or abstract things like aura. Can be used in both literal and figurative senses.
The lamp is giving off a soft light.
A formal verb meaning to emit, send out, or utter. Commonly used for light, heat, sound, or signals.
The stove is giving off heat.
A very common verb meaning 'to put out' or 'to emit'. Used in many contexts, but often combined with a noun (e.g., 光を出す, 音を出す).
This light bulb gives off a bright light.
To produce and spread a smell, often unpleasant.
Also used for smells, especially strong or distinctive ones.
The flower is giving off a strong scent.
Can be used for smells, but slightly more formal.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to smell' or 'to give off a smell'. Often used when the smell is noticeable.
To project a certain vibe, atmosphere, or impression.
Literally 'to brew out', used for creating an atmosphere or impression. Often positive or artistic.
He gives off a calm atmosphere.
Means 'to let drift' or 'to exude'. Used for subtle or lingering impressions, often emotional.
She gives off an air of sadness.
Causative form of 感じる, meaning 'to make feel'. Used to say something gives off a certain feeling.
The movie gives off a feeling of unease.
Both mean 'to emit', but 放つ (はなつ) is more versatile and can be used for abstract things like aura or presence. 発する (はっする) is slightly more formal and often used for signals, light, or official statements.
Do not use 与える (あたえる, 'to give') for 'give off'. It does not convey the meaning of emitting or producing something.
腐った肉が悪臭を発している。
The rotten meat is giving off a bad smell.
この部屋はタバコの匂いがする。
This room smells of cigarettes. (lit. gives off a cigarette smell)