Translation guide
Describes weak or unstable signal for devices like phones, radios, or TVs. Also used metaphorically for a negative response to an idea or performance.
The learner wants to say that a device is not getting a good signal, resulting in dropped calls, static, or pixelated video.
The most common and natural way to say reception is poor. Literally 'the radio waves are bad'. Used for mobile phones, Wi-Fi, TV, etc.
The learner wants to say that something was not well received by an audience or a person.
The English phrase 'poor reception' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. For signal issues, use 電波が悪い (the radio waves are bad). For social reception, use 評判が悪い (reputation is bad) or 受けが悪い (reception is bad).
The reception is poor here, isn't it?
The reception is bad because we're underground.
Means the signal is weak. Slightly more technical than 電波が悪い, but still common.
The signal gets weak in the mountains.
Means 'out of range' or 'no service'. Used when there is absolutely no signal.
I lost service when I entered the tunnel.
A more formal or technical expression meaning 'reception condition is poor'. Used in manuals or technical support.
If reception is poor, please adjust the antenna position.
The new movie had poor reception.
Specifically means 'poorly received' by an audience. Often used for performances, jokes, or presentations.
His joke had poor reception.
Means 'was unpopular' or 'met with disfavor'. A bit more formal and direct.
The proposal had poor reception.