Translation guide
The English word 'puffing' can describe breathing heavily after exertion, emitting short bursts of smoke or steam, or swelling up. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To breathe in short, quick breaths, especially after physical effort.
Literally 'to run out of breath', this is the most common way to say someone is puffing or panting after exercise.
He was puffing after running.
Means 'to be out of breath'. Often used when someone can't continue due to breathlessness.
I was puffing after climbing the stairs.
To pant or gasp for breath, often with a sense of struggling. More dramatic than 息を切らす.
The dog was puffing in the heat.
To blow out smoke, steam, or air in small, quick puffs.
General phrase for 'to puff smoke'. Can be used for cigarettes, chimneys, etc.
He was puffing on his cigarette slowly.
Onomatopoeic adverb describing light, floating puffs of smoke or steam. Often used with と.
Specifically for puffing out steam, like a train or kettle.
To swell or become larger, often used for body parts or objects.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all meanings of 'puffing'. Always choose the expression based on the specific action (breathing, smoking, swelling). Using a direct translation like パッフィング will not be understood.
煙がぷかぷかと上がった。
Smoke was puffing up.
The locomotive was puffing steam.
パンが膨らんだ。
The bread puffed up.