Translation guide
The English word 'radio' can refer to the device, the broadcast medium, or the act of communicating via radio. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on the meaning.
Referring to the physical radio receiver or set.
The most common word for a radio device. A loanword from English, used in everyday conversation.
新しいラジオを買った。
I bought a new radio.
ラジオの音が小さい。
The radio's volume is low.
Refers to a radio transceiver or wireless communication device, often used in professional or military contexts.
警察官が無線機で連絡を取った。
The police officer contacted via radio.
Referring to radio broadcasting, programs, or the industry.
Also used for the medium of radio broadcasting. Can be combined with other words like 番組 (program) or 放送 (broadcast).
ラジオで天気予報を聞いた。
I heard the weather forecast on the radio.
彼はラジオ番組の司会者だ。
He is a host of a radio program.
Specifically means 'radio broadcast'. More formal than just ラジオ.
その事件はラジオ放送で全国に伝えられた。
The incident was reported nationwide via radio broadcast.
The act of sending a message via radio, e.g., 'radio for help'.
Means 'to contact by radio/wireless'. 無線 (wireless) is commonly used for two-way radio communication.
救助隊に無線で連絡した。
We radioed the rescue team.
Literally 'send a wireless message'. Used when transmitting a specific message.
船が遭難信号の無線を送った。
The ship radioed a distress signal.
Means 'to communicate (by radio, etc.)'. Often used in contexts like amateur radio or aviation.
管制塔と交信する。
Communicate with the control tower by radio.
While ラジオ can mean a radio receiver, it is not typically used as a verb for 'to radio someone'. Use 無線で連絡する or similar phrases instead.
無線で呼ぶ
to call by radio