Translation guide
HDTV refers to high-definition television, a digital broadcasting standard with higher resolution than standard-definition TV. In Japanese, the term is usually expressed using the English-derived acronym or the full phrase.
Referring to the technology, broadcasting standard, or television sets that support high-definition resolution.
The acronym 'HDTV' is widely understood in Japan, especially in technical contexts, on product packaging, and in broadcasting. It is pronounced as individual letters: エイチディーティーヴィー.
This TV supports HDTV.
The formal Japanese translation, literally 'high-definition television'. Used in official documents, technical specifications, and sometimes in news. Less common in everyday conversation.
High-definition television broadcasting has started.
The most common term for HDTV in Japan, originally a brand name for NHK's high-definition system but now used generically. Refers to both the broadcasting standard and the TV sets. Note: 'ハイビジョン' specifically implies 1080i or 720p resolution, not 4K or 8K.
This program is broadcast in HDTV.
Referring specifically to a television set capable of displaying high-definition content.
The standard term for an HDTV set. Often shortened to just 'ハイビジョン' in context.
I want a new HDTV.
A more technical term used in product descriptions, meaning 'HDTV-compatible TV'.
This HDTV-compatible TV is energy-efficient.
While 'ハイビジョン' is the most natural term for HDTV, it specifically refers to resolutions up to 1080i/p. For 4K or 8K TVs, use '4Kテレビ' or '8Kテレビ' instead. In casual conversation, 'ハイビジョン' is often used loosely to mean any high-quality TV, but in precise contexts, be aware of the distinction.
I bought an HDTV.