Translation guide
The English word "broadcast" covers several distinct meanings: transmitting media (TV/radio), spreading information widely, and scattering seeds. This guide focuses on the most common uses for learners: media transmission and information dissemination.
To send out a program or signal over the airwaves or through a network.
The standard verb for broadcasting programs on TV or radio. Used for scheduled transmissions.
その番組は毎週日曜日に放送されます。
That program is broadcast every Sunday.
Specifically for television broadcasting. Often used for movies or special programs.
そのドラマは来月放映される予定です。
That drama is scheduled to be broadcast next month.
To broadcast live. Emphasizes that it is happening in real time.
コンサートは生放送されます。
The concert will be broadcast live.
To relay or broadcast from a remote location, often used for sports or news events.
試合をスタジアムから中継します。
We will broadcast the game from the stadium.
To disseminate news, a message, or data to many people, often via the internet or word of mouth.
To spread or disseminate information, ideas, or rumors. General and widely used.
彼はそのニュースをSNSで広めた。
He broadcast the news on social media.
To transmit or send out information, often from an official source or via digital means.
政府は緊急情報を発信した。
The government broadcast emergency information.
To circulate or spread (often rumors or unverified information). More formal or literary.
誤った情報が流布された。
False information was broadcast.
To sow seeds by scattering them over a wide area.
Literally 'to scatter seeds'. The most natural way to express broadcasting seeds.
農家は畑に種をまいた。
The farmer broadcast seeds over the field.
To scatter or strew, often used for seeds or small objects. Can also mean to distribute widely (e.g., money).
放送 (hōsō) is the general term for broadcasting via radio or TV. 放映 (hōei) is specifically for television. Use 放送 when the medium is unclear or includes radio.
While 放送 can sometimes be used metaphorically, it is not natural for spreading information via word of mouth or social media. Use 広める or 発信する instead.
ニュースは午後9時に放送されました。
The news was broadcast at 9 p.m.
彼女はインターネットで自分の意見を発信した。
She broadcast her opinion on the internet.
彼は庭に花の種をばらまいた。
He broadcast flower seeds in the garden.