emitting steam

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emitting steam" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of producing steam, often in contexts related to machinery, cooking, or natural phenomena. Example: "The kettle was emitting steam, signaling that the water was boiling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

On closer inspection, the pit of soil surrounding the stump was found to be emitting steam.

The New Yorker

Two of the plant's reactors are now seen as safe but the other four are volatile, occasionally emitting steam and smoke.

Independent

Mud cones emitting steam and sulfurous fumes indicate slight volcanic activity on the island; there are also gas and oil seepages.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At one bend in the road, a crashed car has been permanently installed, like a sculpture in the Whitney Biennial, its buckled engine periodically emitting steam, to illustrate the dangers of careless driving.

The New Yorker

Although we were able to take a brief look at a crater emitting steam vigorously at 16 37, we could not confirm the observation satisfactory during our stay in the vent proximal area which lasted until 18 30.

Earth, Planets and Space

Following this, bubbling in the mud pool turned into several fumaroles, which are still vigorously emitting steam at temperatures above 150 °C at the time of writing (Fig. 17d).

Earth, Planets and Space

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It would also occasionally spin its wheels, blow a horn and emit steam.

The New York Times

To play up the shower motif, the billboards will emit steam.

The New York Times

The boiling pots emit steam, and the wok cooks the water in the oven, letting off more heat.

The New York Times

There is exactly one and only one candidate on this stage tonight in possession of a pristine collection of HO-scale Lionel trains with an authentic Chattanooga Choo-Choo which emits steam and makes a little "hoo-hoo" sound.

The New Yorker

Sometimes, on a cold, foggy winter night, when the casement windows of the 1920s co-op glowed with light from inside and the smokestacks from the town house emitted steam the color of charcoal, I felt cozily a part of another, more gracious era.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the behavior of machinery or natural phenomena, use "emitting steam" to clearly indicate the action of releasing vapor.

Common error

Avoid using "emitting steam" when describing the release of other substances like smoke or gas. Stick to "emitting" followed by the correct substance for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emitting steam" functions as a gerund phrase, often used to describe an ongoing action or state. Ludwig shows its utility in describing various phenomena, from volcanic activity to malfunctioning machinery.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "emitting steam" is a grammatically correct and commonly used gerund phrase that describes the action of releasing steam. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "releasing steam" or "giving off steam" exist, "emitting steam" is a clear and descriptive choice. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the subject and avoids confusion with other types of emissions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

releasing steam

This alternative uses a more general verb, "releasing", to describe the action of letting out steam.

giving off steam

This alternative uses the phrasal verb "giving off", implying a gradual or continuous release of steam.

producing steam

This alternative focuses on the creation of steam rather than its emission.

venting steam

This alternative suggests a controlled or directed release of steam.

generating steam

This alternative, similar to "producing steam", highlights the creation process.

discharging steam

This alternative implies a forceful or substantial release of steam.

exhaling steam

This alternative suggests a more gentle or breath-like release of steam.

steaming

This is a shortened, more concise way of saying "emitting steam", acting as a verb.

expelling steam

This alternative suggests a forceful ejection of steam.

puffing steam

This alternative evokes a visual of steam being released in short bursts.

FAQs

How can I use "emitting steam" in a sentence?

You can use "emitting steam" to describe a process where steam is released, such as "The geyser was emitting steam into the cold air" or "The old engine was emitting steam as it struggled up the hill".

What's a more concise way to say "emitting steam"?

Depending on the context, you could use the single word "steaming", such as "The kettle was steaming".

What verbs are similar to "emitting" when describing steam?

Similar verbs include "releasing", "giving off", or "venting". Each carries a slightly different connotation.

Is "emitting steam" only used for physical processes?

While primarily used for physical processes, it can be used metaphorically. However, be mindful that alternative like "exuding emotion" or "radiating energy" may be more appropriate depending on your intention.