emit - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
emit Word Meanings
- to send out something, such as light or sound
- to discharge or release
- to issue or produce, as in a statement or command
emit Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
emit Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈmɪt/
US
/ɪˈmɪt/
emit Word Etymology
The root 'emit' comes from 'e-' (out) + 'mittere' (to send). It originated from Latin, passed through Old French before entering English. Imagine a bright light bulb sending out rays of light into the darkness.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Emit is a versatile verb meaning to send out or release something from a source. It covers light, sound, heat, gas, signals, statements, and even data in tech contexts. The action is active: the subject produces the output, often with a sense of emission from a source, not just allowing it to happen. Common collocations include emit light, emit a sound, emit fumes, emit a statement, and emit data events in programming. The term also appears in legal or scientific writing to describe the production or discharge of something. Remember the different forms like emits and emitted, and how passive be emitted is used when the source is unknown.
Usage Reminders
- • Use emit for sending out light, sound, heat, gas, or signals.
- • In tech, you can emit events or data.
- • Don’t confuse emit with omit.
- • In passive voice, be emitted by may describe unknown sources.
- • Emitting vs emitting a statement: be mindful of context and formality.
Common Misconceptions
- Think emit is only about light; it also covers sound, gas, and signals.
- Confuse emit with omit, which means exclude or leave out.
- In stative contexts, workers do not say ‘is emitting’ for ongoing states unless active.
- Passive form be emitted by is used when the source is unknown.
- When describing data in programming, emit is often paired with events or messages.
Thinking Differences
Emit frames release as a physical or sensory output from a source; English favors direct, active phrasing with clear agent in many contexts.
Learning Tips
- Practice emit with light and sound: 'emit light', 'emit a sound' in different tenses.
- Use in tech: 'emit an event' or 'emit data'.
- Compare with omit to avoid confusion.
- Practice passive: 'be emitted by the source'.
- Note the noun form emission is a related term but not a verb.
- Listen for natural collocations in news and science articles.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'emit'?
A.To absorb
B.To create
C.To reveal
D.To produce
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'emit' used correctly?
A.The plant could not emit oxygen.
B.She could emit the truth.
C.The sun could emit darkness.
D.He could emit a smile.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'emit'?
A.Generate
B.Produce
C.Conceal
D.Release
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you expect the word 'emit' to be used?
A.Studying for an exam
B.Repairing a car engine
C.Watching a movie
D.Cooking in the kitchen
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a sentence using the word 'emit'?
A.Maybe I can emit a smell from the flowers.
B.No, I don't know how to emit light.
C.Sure, I can emit a sound when I whistle.
D.I won't emit my thoughts on the matter.
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