地上波
ち
じょ
う
は
Meanings
1
ground wave; terrestrial broadcast signal
Refers to radio or TV signals that travel along the ground, as opposed to satellite signals. Often used in contrast with 衛星放送.
Terrestrial broadcast signals are easily affected by buildings.
2
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
terrestrial; over-the-air
Used attributively with の to describe broadcasting that is not via satellite or cable, e.g., 地上波テレビ.
Over-the-air programs can be watched for free.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉が地上波で放送されるfor something to be broadcast on terrestrial TV
That drama will be broadcast on terrestrial TV starting next week.
- 地上波の〈物〉a terrestrial (over-the-air) ~
I often watch terrestrial news programs.
Expressions
- 地上波デジタル放送terrestrial digital broadcasting; digital terrestrial television