Translation guide
The English word 'sending' covers a range of actions from dispatching physical items to transmitting electronic messages. In Japanese, the appropriate expression depends on what is being sent and the method of sending.
To dispatch or forward a physical item to a recipient, typically via postal or delivery service.
The most general verb for sending something. Can be used for letters, packages, emails, etc.
Formal term for shipping or dispatching goods, often used in business contexts.
We have shipped the product.
Specifically sending by postal mail.
Please send the documents by mail.
To transmit a digital message or file via the internet or other electronic means.
Standard verb for sending electronic data, such as emails or files.
To dispatch a person to go somewhere, often for a specific purpose.
Causative form of 行く (to go), meaning to make/let someone go; used for sending a person.
To accompany someone to their point of departure and say goodbye.
To emit or transmit a signal, radio wave, or broadcast content.
送る is a general verb for sending physical items and casual electronic messages. 送信する is specifically for electronic transmission and sounds more technical.
I sent the email.
Send data.
Also commonly used for emails and messages in casual contexts.
I'll send you an email.
I sent him to do the shopping.
Formal term for dispatching personnel, such as employees or troops.
Send employees overseas.
Used in certain expressions like 使いに出す (send on an errand).
I sent the child on an errand.
To see someone off, such as at an airport or station.
I saw my friend off at the station.
Transmit radio waves.
Also used for transmitting signals, similar to electronic messages.
Transmit data.
Send a letter (natural) / Send a letter (unnatural, as if electronic)
To send a person somewhere, use causative forms like 行かせる or specific verbs like 派遣する. Using 送る for people can imply 'escorting' or 'seeing off', not dispatching.