Translation guide
The English word 'television' can refer to the device, the medium, or the industry. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context.
The most common word for a television set. Used in everyday conversation.
I bought a new television.
The TV broke.
A formal or technical term for a television receiver. Rarely used in daily speech.
This television receiver has high picture quality.
Referring to television as a form of media or broadcasting.
Used for the medium in general, just like in English.
I watched the news on television.
The influence of television is significant.
Specifically refers to television broadcasting, often used in technical or industry contexts.
Television broadcasting began.
Referring to the television industry or business.
In most everyday situations, テレビ covers both the physical TV set and the medium. Context usually makes the meaning clear. If you need to be specific, use テレビ受像機 for the device or テレビ放送 for broadcasting, but these are less common in casual speech.