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.
That program is broadcast every Sunday.
Specifically for television broadcasting. Often used for movies or special programs.
That drama is scheduled to be broadcast next month.
To broadcast live. Emphasizes that it is happening in real time.
The concert will be broadcast live.
To relay or broadcast from a remote location, often used for sports or news events.
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.
He broadcast the news on social media.
To transmit or send out information, often from an official source or via digital means.
The government broadcast emergency information.
To circulate or spread (often rumors or unverified information). More formal or literary.
False information was broadcast.
To sow seeds by scattering them over a wide area.
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.
The news was broadcast at 9 p.m.
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.