give something off—(of smell, vapor, etc.) release; send out:
- The Daimler stood patiently in the sun outside, its leather giving off a hot smell.
give something out—
1. hand smth. out; distribute smth.:
- Several people have been arrested in Red Square for giving out leaflets.
2. make smth. known; announce smth.:
- Whatever made you give such a terrible piece of news out on the morning of the girl’s wedding?
3. (of sound, light, etc.) send out:
- The ship gave out radio signals for help until she sank.
Note: Neither expression correlates in meaning with the phrase give something away—
1. give smth. free of charge:
- The young man gave all his possessions away and went to live on a small island.
2. (of prizes, awards, etc.) distribute:
- Do you really think it necessary to drag the Mayor in, just to give away a few certificates to kids.
3. betray a secret; reveal smth.:
- Kylie was very secretive about reports that she’s planning to wed Martinez … but singer Dannii has given the secret away.
4. waste smth. such as an opportunity, etc.:
- If you give your chances away like that, how can you expect to win the game.