Translation guide
In Japanese, 'electronic billboard' can be expressed with several terms depending on the type and context. The most common is 電子掲示板 (denshi keijiban), a general term for digital bulletin boards. For large outdoor advertising displays, 電光掲示板 (denkō keijiban) is used. In casual or tech contexts, the English loanword デジタルサイネージ (dejitaru sainēji) is also common.
A digital display board for announcements, schedules, or information, often found in stations, schools, or offices.
The standard term for any electronic bulletin board or digital notice board. It covers a wide range of uses from simple text displays to more advanced screens.
駅の電子掲示板に電車の時刻が表示されている。
The train schedule is displayed on the electronic bulletin board at the station.
A slightly more modern-sounding term, often used for digital signage in commercial settings.
デジタル掲示板で新商品の広告を流している。
They are running ads for new products on the digital bulletin board.
A big, bright electronic sign used for advertising or public information, like in Times Square or on highways.
Specifically refers to an illuminated electronic signboard, often with moving text or graphics. Common for outdoor advertising and traffic information.
高速道路の電光掲示板に渋滞情報が出ていた。
Traffic jam information was displayed on the electronic billboard on the highway.
Literally 'large vision', this term is used for giant video screens in public spaces, like those in Shibuya or sports stadiums.
渋谷の大型ビジョンでライブ中継が流れている。
A live broadcast is playing on the large screen in Shibuya.
A screen used for advertising or information in stores, malls, or public areas, often part of a networked system.
The loanword from English 'digital signage'. Widely used in business and tech contexts for any digital display used for advertising or information.
店内のデジタルサイネージでメニューが確認できます。
You can check the menu on the digital signage inside the store.
電子掲示板 is a broad term for any electronic bulletin board, often text-based. 電光掲示板 specifically implies a bright, illuminated sign, often with moving elements. デジタルサイネージ is the modern term for digital advertising displays, often part of a network. Use 電子掲示板 for station boards, 電光掲示板 for highway signs, and デジタルサイネージ for commercial screens.
The English term 'bulletin board' can also refer to online forums (BBS). In Japanese, that is 掲示板 (けいじばん) or 電子掲示板 (でんしけいじばん) in the context of the internet. However, for physical electronic boards, 電子掲示板 is fine. Context usually makes it clear.
Literally 'electronic signboard', this term is sometimes used for digital advertising displays, but it can also refer to simpler illuminated signs.
あのビルの電子看板は夜になるととても目立つ。
That building's electronic signboard stands out a lot at night.