How to say "broadcast" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 配信はいしんnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers broadcast in the sense of transmitting or streaming content over the internet, such as delivering video, music, or news to an online audience. It emphasizes distribution rather than the broadcast medium itself.
- 放送ほうそうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbThe usual word for broadcast in the mass-media sense: radio and television broadcasting, programs, and announcements. Choose this when talking about TV or radio stations airing content.
- godan verb, transitive verbOnly a marginal match: it literally means to scatter, and figuratively to spread rumors, germs, or money around. It is seldom the word you want for media broadcasting; use it for scattering or disseminating widely.
Use 放送 for radio or TV broadcasting and programs, 配信 for streaming or online distribution of content, and 「ばらまく」 only for the figurative sense of scattering or spreading something widely.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
