Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for 'advertisement' is 広告 (こうこく). However, the best choice depends on the medium and context. This guide covers general ads, TV commercials, online ads, and related expressions.
To refer to an advertisement in a broad sense, such as in print, online, or outdoor.
The standard, all-purpose word for 'advertisement' or 'ad'. Used for print, online, billboards, etc.
We placed an advertisement in the newspaper.
Short for 'advertisement', borrowed from English. Common in casual or business contexts, especially for online ads.
Often translated as 'advertisement' but closer to 'promotion' or 'publicity'. Can refer to the act of advertising or promotional material.
To refer specifically to a commercial on television, radio, or online video platforms.
The most common term for a TV or radio commercial. Stands for 'commercial message'. Pronounced シーエム.
This commercial is funny, isn't it?
To refer to advertisements on websites, social media, or apps.
General term for online advertisements. ネット is short for インターネット.
To refer to small advertisements, often in newspapers or online, for jobs, items for sale, or personal messages.
To refer to a physical advertisement distributed by hand or mail.
A flyer or leaflet, often inserted in newspapers or handed out on the street.
広告 (こうこく) is a paid, non-personal announcement, like a print ad or banner. 宣伝 (せんでん) is broader, meaning promotion or publicity, which can include advertising but also word-of-mouth or PR activities. Use 広告 for a specific ad; use 宣伝 for the act of promoting something.
CM is the default word for TV commercials in casual conversation. コマーシャル sounds more formal or technical. In everyday speech, just say CM.
I saw an interesting advertisement on the train.
This site earns revenue through advertisements.
This app has a lot of ads.
新製品の宣伝に力を入れている。
We are putting effort into promoting the new product.
CMの後でまた戻ります。
We'll be back after the commercial.
Also means 'commercial', but less common than CM in everyday speech. Sometimes used in formal contexts.
Produce a television commercial.
Measure the effectiveness of online ads.
Specifically web-based advertisements, often used in business contexts.
We increased the budget for web advertising.
Social media advertising. SNS stands for 'social networking service'.
Attract customers through social media ads.
Job advertisement or recruitment ad.
I applied after seeing the job advertisement.
Literally 'three-line ad', referring to small classified ads in newspapers.
Place an ad in the newspaper's classified section.
They are handing out flyers in front of the station.
Similar to チラシ, but often implies a simpler, sometimes political or activist leaflet.
An election leaflet was in the mailbox.
This video has too many ads.