Espirare vs. esalare
The Italian words 'espirare' and 'esalare' both refer to the act of breathing out or exhaling, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Espirare
'Espirare' is more commonly used in medical or technical contexts. It refers to the physiological act of exhaling or expiring air from the lungs.
Il medico gli ha chiesto di espirare lentamente durante l'esame.
(The doctor asked him to exhale slowly during the examination.)
Durante l'esercizio di respirazione, inspirate profondamente e poi espirate.
(During the breathing exercise, inhale deeply and then exhale.)
Esalare
'Esalare' is often used in a broader sense, not just for breathing. It can refer to giving off or emitting vapors, odors, or even figuratively releasing emotions.
I fiori in giardino esalano un profumo delizioso.
(The flowers in the garden exhale a delightful fragrance.)
Il vulcano continua a esalare vapori tossici.
(The volcano continues to exhale toxic vapors.)
Nell'ultimo respiro, esalò un sospiro di sollievo.
(In his last breath, he exhaled a sigh of relief.)
Summary
While 'espirare' is primarily used for the physical act of exhaling in medical or technical contexts, 'esalare' has a wider range of applications, including emitting odors or vapors and can be used more figuratively. Both words relate to the concept of releasing air or substances, but 'esalare' is more versatile in its usage.