emits light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emits light" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object or phenomenon that produces or gives off light, such as a star, lamp, or firefly. Example: "The firefly emits light during the warm summer nights, creating a magical atmosphere in the garden."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

For one thing, silicon emits light below 10 nanometers, he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Light reflects off a print, he said, while a computer emits light.

The New York Times

Inside, a 100-watt bulb emits light through precisely determined slits along the edges.

The New York Times

Therefore, the disk emits light from infrared to low-energy (soft) X-ray wavelengths.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The screen emits light that can be viewed from outside the tube.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1939, scientists showed that peeling tape emits light, an experiment anyone can conduct in a closet.

The New York Times - Science

One sensor emits light near the infrared range, giving Kinect its own light source impervious to ambient conditions.

The New York Times

Phosphor, solid material that emits light, or luminesces, when exposed to radiation such as ultraviolet light or an electron beam.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fine structure is produced when an atom emits light in making the transition from one energy state to another.

Encyclopedia Britannica

WHATEVER happens, though, it is clear that the little diode -- a semiconductor device that emits light when electricity passes through it -- has conquered Times Square.

The New York Times

A quantum dot emits light of a specific color, or wavelength, depending upon its size, and the intensity of the light varies depending upon the quantity of dots.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scientific process or phenomenon, use "emits light" to clearly and precisely convey that light is being produced, rather than reflected or refracted.

Common error

Avoid using "emits light" when you mean "reflects light". Emission refers to the creation and release of light from a source, while reflection is the bouncing of light off a surface. Make sure to use the right word based on whether the object is creating the light or simply bouncing it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emits light" functions as a verb phrase, where "emits" is the main verb indicating the action of producing or releasing light. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. The examples demonstrate its usage in scientific, technical, and descriptive writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "emits light" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase, primarily found in science, news, and encyclopedia articles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately describes the action of producing light, distinguishing it from reflecting light. When writing, ensure you use "emits light" when an object or substance generates light, not when it simply bounces light off its surface. Related phrases like "radiates light" or "gives off light" can be used as alternatives, depending on the context. Its usage indicates a neutral to formal register, suitable for precise and technical descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

radiates light

Replaces "emits" with "radiates", focusing on the outward spread of light.

gives off light

Substitutes "emits" with the more common phrasal verb "gives off", indicating a less formal tone.

produces light

Replaces "emits" with "produces", emphasizing the creation of light.

releases light

Substitutes "emits" with "releases", highlighting the act of light being set free.

sends out light

Replaces "emits" with "sends out", focusing on the direction of the light.

casts light

Changes the verb to "casts", emphasizing the projection of light onto something.

projects light

Replaces "emits" with "projects", suggesting a deliberate direction or focus of the light.

glows

Uses a single verb to encompass the action of emitting light, implying a soft, diffused light.

illuminates

Replaces "emits light" with "illuminates", focusing on the effect of the light on surroundings.

shines

Uses a single verb to describe the action of emitting bright light.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "emits light"?

When something "emits light", it means it produces or gives off light, rather than reflecting it. This could be due to a variety of processes, such as incandescence, luminescence, or other forms of energy conversion.

What are some synonyms for "emits light"?

Some synonyms for "emits light" include "radiates light", "gives off light", or "produces light" depending on the specific context.

How is "emits light" different from "reflects light"?

"Emits light" describes the creation and release of light from a source. "Reflects light", on the other hand, describes the process where light bounces off a surface without being created by that surface. A light bulb "emits light", while a mirror "reflects light".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "emits light"?

The phrase "emits light" is appropriate in scientific, technical, and descriptive contexts where it is important to accurately convey that an object or substance is generating light. Examples include describing how a star, a light bulb, or a bioluminescent organism produces light.