Translation guide
In Japanese, 'power line' is most commonly expressed as 電線 (でんせん) for the physical wire or cable, or 送電線 (そうでんせん) for high-voltage transmission lines. The choice depends on context: everyday wires on poles vs. large-scale grid infrastructure.
The learner wants to refer to the actual wire or cable, typically seen on utility poles or connecting buildings.
General term for an electric wire or cable, including power lines on poles. This is the most common word in everyday contexts.
The power line was cut by the typhoon.
Watch out for the power lines.
Literally 'power line', often used in technical contexts or for power line communication (PLC). Less common in everyday speech than 電線.
Power line communication is susceptible to noise.
The learner wants to refer to large steel towers and high-voltage cables that transmit electricity over long distances.
The learner wants to talk about the path or right-of-way where power lines run, not just the wires themselves.
Refers to the entire transmission line route or corridor, including towers and right-of-way. Used in engineering or legal contexts.
You cannot build a house under a transmission line route.
電線 (でんせん) is the general term for any electric wire, including low-voltage distribution lines on poles. 送電線 (そうでんせん) specifically means high-voltage transmission lines on large towers. 電力線 (でんりょくせん) is more technical and often used in compound terms like 電力線通信 (power line communication). For everyday reference to wires on poles, use 電線.
The direct loanword パワーライン is not commonly used in Japanese. It may be understood in some technical or brand contexts, but it sounds unnatural. Stick with the native terms above.
新しい送電線を建設する計画がある。
There is a plan to construct new transmission lines.
Means 'high-voltage line'. Often used in warnings or news about dangers near power lines. Can refer to both transmission and distribution lines.
Don't fly kites near high-voltage power lines.