Translation guide
A method of encoding information in a carrier wave by varying its frequency. In Japanese, the technical term is a direct loanword, but the abbreviation FM is far more common in everyday use, especially for radio.
The engineering or physics concept of varying the frequency of a carrier wave to transmit information.
The direct technical translation. Used in academic and professional contexts.
周波数変調は、振幅変調よりもノイズに強い。
Frequency modulation is more resistant to noise than amplitude modulation.
Referring to the FM radio band, FM stations, or FM receivers.
The standard abbreviation used in all contexts for FM radio. Can be used as a noun or modifier.
このラジオはFMが聞けますか？
Can this radio receive FM?
FM放送は音質がいい。
FM broadcasting has good sound quality.
Explicitly refers to an FM radio receiver or the medium.
新しいFMラジオを買った。
I bought a new FM radio.
Specifically refers to FM broadcasting as a service.
FM放送は全国で聞ける。
FM broadcasts can be heard nationwide.
Frequency modulation synthesis, a method of sound synthesis used in electronic music.
Refers to an FM sound chip or FM synthesis engine, commonly used in retro gaming and synthesizers.
このゲームの音楽はFM音源で作られている。
This game's music is made with an FM sound chip.
The direct loanword for FM synthesis, used in music technology contexts.
FMシンセシスはヤマハが開発した。
FM synthesis was developed by Yamaha.
In almost all non-technical contexts, use 'FM' (エフエム) rather than the full term '周波数変調'. The full term is reserved for engineering textbooks or patents.
Amplitude modulation is '振幅変調' (しんぷくへんちょう) or simply 'AM' (エーエム). Make sure to use the correct abbreviation.