Translation guide
The phrasal verb "let off" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: releasing something (like steam or a smell), allowing someone to leave a vehicle, not punishing someone, and making something explode. Each meaning has different natural Japanese equivalents.
To allow something like steam, gas, a smell, or a sound to escape or be produced.
General verb for releasing or emitting something into the air. Can be used for steam, gas, heat, etc.
The factory is letting off smoke.
Often used for emitting sounds, smells, light, or heat. Slightly more formal/literary.
The flower is letting off a strong scent.
Very common and versatile verb meaning 'to put out' or 'to emit'. Used in many contexts.
The kettle is letting off steam.
Specifically for making a sound. Literally 'to make a sound stand'.
He let off a loud sigh.
To let someone get off a bus, train, car, etc.
To allow someone to escape punishment or to give a light punishment.
General verb for 'to forgive' or 'to let off'. Can be used for minor offenses.
The police let him off with just a warning.
Idiom meaning 'to overlook' or 'to let off easy'. Implies leniency.
Directly means 'not to punish'. Simple and clear.
The teacher let off the students who were late.
Formal word for 'to exempt' from a duty or punishment.
The judge let him off his sentence.
To make something explode or fire a weapon.
Specifically for launching fireworks or rockets into the sky.
They let off fireworks.
General verb for causing an explosion. Can be used for bombs.
The terrorists let off a bomb.
Formal/technical term for firing a gun.
The soldier let off his gun.
The English phrasal verb 'let off' does not have a single direct Japanese equivalent. Always choose the expression based on the specific meaning (release, disembark, forgive, explode).
The bus driver told the passengers to let off at the next stop.
I'll let you off this time.