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A1 noun #3,265 가장 일반적인 9분 분량

電波

denpa 상위 3,265

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 電波 30초 만에

설명 電波 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know 'denpa' in the context of your mobile phone. Think of it as the Japanese word for 'bars' or 'signal.' You will mostly use it in simple sentences to explain why you can't use your phone or why a call is bad. The most important phrases are 'Denpa ga nai' (No signal) and 'Denpa ga warui' (Bad signal). Imagine you are in an elevator and your friend is trying to call you; you would point to your phone and say 'Denpa...' to explain the problem. At this stage, don't worry about the scientific meaning of 'radio waves.' Just focus on how it relates to your smartphone and daily communication. You might also see it on signs in trains asking you to turn off your phone near priority seats. Learning this word early is very helpful because Japan has many underground areas (like subways and basement malls) where you will frequently need to talk about your signal strength.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'denpa' with a wider variety of verbs and adjectives. Instead of just saying 'no signal,' you can say 'Denpa ga hairinai' (The signal doesn't enter/come in) or 'Denpa ga yowai' (The signal is weak). You will also begin to notice the word in compound forms, such as 'denpa-dokei' (radio-controlled clock), which are very common in Japanese households. You should be able to understand simple instructions or warnings about signals, such as 'Denpa no todoku basho de o-kake kudasai' (Please call from a place where the signal reaches). This level involves understanding that 'denpa' is something that can be 'strong,' 'weak,' 'stable,' or 'unstable.' You might also hear it used in the context of Wi-Fi, though 'Wi-Fi' is also used directly. Using 'denpa' correctly at this level helps you navigate daily life and small talk about technology and connectivity.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

By B1, you should understand 'denpa' in more formal and technical contexts. You'll encounter it in news reports about telecommunications or in manuals for electronic devices. You should be familiar with 'denpa-shougai' (signal interference) and how physical objects like buildings or mountains affect waves. You can also start to use the word metaphorically or in slang, such as understanding the term 'denpa-kei' for someone who is eccentric. At this level, you should be able to explain *why* the signal is bad using more complex grammar, such as 'Koko wa chikashitsu nano de, denpa ga hairinikui desu' (Because this is a basement, it's hard for the signal to get in). You will also see 'denpa' used in the context of broadcasting (TV and radio), and you should understand that 'denpa ni noru' means something is being broadcast. This level bridges the gap between daily survival Japanese and more descriptive, nuanced language.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the societal and legal implications of 'denpa.' This includes the 'Denpa-hou' (Radio Act) and how the government regulates different frequencies. You should be able to participate in discussions about technology, such as the pros and cons of 5G or how 'denpa' affects medical equipment in hospitals. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'shuuhasuu' (frequency) and 'kanshou' (interference). You can also use the word 'denpa' in more abstract ways, discussing the history of broadcasting in Japan or the cultural impact of 'denpa-kei' media. You should be comfortable reading technical articles or listening to reports that discuss 'denpa' as a resource that is managed by the state. At this level, you move beyond just 'having a signal' to understanding the infrastructure and science behind wireless communication.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of 'denpa' across all domains—scientific, legal, and cultural. You can follow complex debates about the allocation of the electromagnetic spectrum and the technical challenges of high-frequency waves in urban environments. You understand the nuances of how 'denpa' is used in literature or high-level social commentary to describe human isolation or the invisible 'waves' of influence in society. You can use technical terms like 'denjiha' (electromagnetic waves) and 'denpa-denshou' (wave propagation) accurately in professional settings. You are also aware of the historical development of the term and its specific Japanese cultural baggage, such as how the 'denpa' subculture reflects certain periods of Japanese social history. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including the subtle use of the word in irony or advanced metaphors.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

At the C2 level, you possess a near-native or expert-level grasp of 'denpa.' You can interpret and discuss the most technical aspects of electromagnetic theory in Japanese, or analyze the legal intricacies of international radio wave treaties. You understand the most obscure slang and historical references related to the word. You can navigate any professional environment, from a telecommunications engineering firm to a legal office specializing in broadcast law, using 'denpa' and its related terminology with absolute precision. You can also appreciate and use the word in creative writing or high-level academic discourse, exploring the philosophical implications of a world saturated with invisible signals. Your understanding includes the technical, the social, the legal, and the poetic dimensions of the word, allowing for complete fluency in any context.

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

電波 30초 만에

Denpa means radio waves or cellular signal.
Commonly used to describe phone reception quality.
Essential for daily life in Japan's tech-heavy environment.
Can be used for technical, colloquial, or slang contexts.

The Japanese word 電波 (でんぱ - denpa) is a compound noun that literally translates to 'electric waves.' In technical terms, it refers to electromagnetic waves used for wireless communication, such as radio, television, and mobile phone signals. However, its usage in daily life is far more pervasive than just technical jargon. For most Japanese speakers, the word is synonymous with 'signal' or 'reception' on a mobile device. When you are in a basement, an elevator, or deep in the mountains and your phone shows no bars, you are experiencing a lack of 電波.

Literal Meaning: The physical electromagnetic waves transmitted through space for telecommunications. This includes everything from FM radio to 5G cellular networks.
Colloquial Usage: Refers to the strength or presence of mobile phone reception. Sentences like 'Denpa ga nai' (I have no signal) are incredibly common in modern Japan.
Metaphorical/Slang Usage: The term 'denpa-kei' refers to people who act strangely or claim to receive messages from outer space or invisible sources, implying their 'frequency' is different from society.

地下室なので、電波が全く入りません。
— Since it is a basement, there is absolutely no signal/reception.

Understanding the nuances of denpa requires recognizing that it is an invisible necessity in the modern urban landscape of Japan. In a country where public transportation is ubiquitous, you will often see signs in trains or hospitals regarding the use of devices that emit denpa. For instance, near priority seats on trains, passengers were historically asked to turn off their phones to avoid interfering with pacemakers—a rule driven by the management of denpa.

山の上は電波が弱いですね。
— The signal is weak on top of the mountain, isn't it?

Beyond the technical, the word has entered the realm of pop culture. The 'Denpa-kei' (電波系) subculture emerged in the 1990s, describing characters in anime or real-life individuals who seem disconnected from reality, as if they are 'hearing voices' through radio waves. While the literal meaning is scientific, the social implications of denpa cover everything from connectivity to sanity.

この時計は電波時計なので、時刻が正確です。
— This is a radio-controlled clock, so the time is accurate.

In summary, whether you are trying to browse the web in a Shinkansen tunnel or explaining why your GPS isn't working, denpa is the essential word for 'wireless connection.' It bridges the gap between high-level physics and the daily frustration of a low battery or a dropped call.

Using 電波 (denpa) correctly involves pairing it with specific verbs that describe the status of the signal. The most common verbs used with denpa are 入る (hairu - to enter/receive), 届く (todoku - to reach), and 途切れる (togireru - to be cut off). Unlike English, where we say 'I have a signal,' Japanese often phrases it as 'The signal enters' or 'The signal reaches.'

Describing Presence: Use 'Denpa ga hairu' (Signal enters) to say you have reception. Use 'Denpa ga nai' or 'Denpa ga hairanai' to say you don't.
Describing Quality: Use adjectives like 'ii' (good), 'warui' (bad), 'tsuyoi' (strong), or 'yowai' (weak). 'Denpa ga fuantei' means the signal is unstable.

トンネルの中は電波が届きません。
— The signal doesn't reach inside the tunnel.

When discussing technology, denpa is often combined with other nouns to create compound words. A very common example is 電波時計 (denpa-dokei), which refers to clocks that synchronize themselves using a long-wave time signal. Another is 電波障害 (denpa-shougai), referring to signal interference or a communication breakdown caused by physical obstacles or solar activity.

電波の状態を確認してください。
— Please check the signal status.

In a work environment, you might hear about 電波法 (Denpa-hou), the Radio Act of Japan, which regulates how frequencies are used. This is important for companies selling wireless electronics in Japan; they must ensure their products comply with these regulations to receive the 'Giteki' mark, indicating they don't emit illegal denpa.

Wi-Fiの電波が干渉しています。
— The Wi-Fi signals are interfering with each other.

Lastly, in the context of broadcasting, denpa is used to describe the transmission of TV or radio programs. 'Denpa ni noru' (to ride the waves) is an idiomatic way to say something was broadcast on air. This highlights the word's versatility, moving from the physical reality of physics to the metaphorical reality of media.

You will hear 電波 (denpa) in a variety of everyday situations in Japan. The most frequent location is anywhere with poor connectivity. On public transportation, such as the Tokyo Metro or the Shinkansen, announcements might mention denpa in relation to mobile phone courtesy or temporary loss of service in tunnels.

In the Office: During Zoom calls or remote meetings, if someone's video freezes, a colleague might say, 'Denpa ga warui mitai desu ne' (It seems the signal is bad).
In Electronics Stores: Staff at Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera will use 'denpa' to explain the benefits of high-end routers or radio-controlled watches.

「すみません、電波が悪いので、一度切りますね。」
— "Sorry, the signal is bad, so I'm going to hang up for a moment."

Another place you'll encounter the word is in the news. Reports on new telecommunications laws, the rollout of 6G technology, or even astronomical events like solar flares that might disrupt satellite denpa will use the term frequently. It is a fundamental part of the vocabulary for anyone living in a tech-forward society like Japan.

In social circles, the term 'denpa-tou' (radio tower) refers to literal towers like Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree, but it also appears in discussions about urban planning. If you are hiking, your guide might warn you about 'denpa ga todokanai basho' (places where the signal doesn't reach), which is vital for safety in the Japanese wilderness.

この辺りは電波塔が多いから、受信感度がいい。
— There are many radio towers around here, so the reception sensitivity is good.

Finally, the word is used in the context of home appliances. Microwaves are called 'denshi renji' (electronic range), but they work using high-frequency denpa. While consumers don't usually call it denpa when heating food, the instruction manual certainly will. This ubiquitous word is the invisible thread connecting your phone, your TV, your watch, and even your kitchen.

While 電波 (denpa) is a versatile word, English speakers often make the mistake of using it where 'Wi-Fi' or 'Internet' would be more specific. In Japanese, denpa refers to the physical waves, whereas netto (net) or tsushin (communication) refers to the connection itself. However, in casual speech, denpa is often used to mean 'the internet connection I get through the air.'

Confusion with 'Wi-Fi': If your Wi-Fi router is on but the internet is down, saying 'Denpa ga nai' might be technically incorrect (the waves are there, but the data isn't). In this case, 'Netto ga tsunagaranai' (The net won't connect) is better.
Confusing with 'Housou': 'Housou' means 'broadcasting' (the content), while 'denpa' is the medium. You don't 'watch denpa'; you watch a 'housou' delivered via 'denpa'.

× 電波をオンラインにします。
○ インターネットに接続します。
— You don't 'put denpa online'; you 'connect to the internet.'

Another common error is using denpa to refer to electrical power or electricity in general. The first kanji 電 (den) means electricity, which leads some beginners to use it for 'power signal' or 'battery.' If your phone is dead because the battery ran out, you should say 'Juuden ga kireta' (The charge ran out), not 'Denpa ga nai'. Denpa is strictly for wireless signals.

Furthermore, beginners sometimes confuse denpa with shingo (signal). Shingo is used for traffic lights or a specific data signal in a system. If you are talking about your phone's bars, denpa is the natural choice. If you are talking about a green light at a crosswalk, it is shingo. Mixing these up can lead to confusing sentences like 'the radio wave turned red.'

× 電波が青になった。
○ 信号が青になった。
— The traffic light (not the radio wave) turned green.

In summary, keep denpa for wireless waves and reception. Avoid using it for physical electricity, traffic signals, or general internet connectivity when the physical signal itself isn't the issue. Mastery of these distinctions will make your Japanese sound far more natural and precise.

While 電波 (denpa) is the go-to word for signal, several other terms exist depending on the context. Understanding these will help you navigate technical and casual conversations with ease.

受信 (Juushin) - Reception/Receiving: While 'denpa' is the wave itself, 'juushin' is the act of receiving it. You might say 'Juushin joutai ga warui' (The reception state is bad).
通信 (Tsuushin) - Communication/Data Transmission: This refers to the overall process of data exchange. 'Tsuushin sokudo' is connection speed. 'Denpa' is the physical medium for 'tsuushin'.
信号 (Shingo) - Signal: Used for traffic signals or specific electronic signals. 'Denpa' is the carrier wave; 'shingo' is the information or the indicator.

通信制限がかかって、速度が遅い。
— My data is being throttled (communication limit applied), so the speed is slow.

In technical contexts, you might encounter 周波数 (shuuhasuu), which means 'frequency.' When engineers talk about denpa, they are often concerned with which shuuhasuu it is operating on. For a learner, knowing that denpa is the general term and shuuhasuu is the specific measurement is helpful.

Another related term is 電磁波 (denjiha). While denpa usually refers to the communication spectrum (radio waves), denjiha is the scientific term for the entire electromagnetic spectrum, including X-rays and visible light. If you are reading a health manual about the safety of mobile phones, they will likely use denjiha to sound more scientific.

この建物は電磁波を遮断する設計です。
— This building is designed to block electromagnetic waves.

Finally, in very casual slang, people sometimes just say 'Netto' (Net) or 'Wi-Fi' even if they mean the cellular signal. However, denpa remains the most common and clear way to express that your phone's wireless connection to the tower is the problem. Choosing between denpa, tsuushin, and juushin depends on whether you want to focus on the wave, the data, or the act of receiving.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The 'Denpa' subculture (denpa-kei) was inspired by a real-life crime in 1981 where the perpetrator claimed 'radio waves' told him to do it. This dark origin eventually evolved into a more general anime trope for 'eccentric' characters.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈdɛnpɑː/

US /ˈdɛnpɑː/

First syllable (Den-pa).

라임이 맞는 단어

Tenpa (natural perm) Kenpa (hopscotch) Genpa (field/site - though usually genba) Sanpa (three waves) Kanpa (cold wave) Nanpa (flirting) Renpa (consecutive wins) Gunpa (military faction)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing it like 'dempa' with a strong 'm'. While phonetically similar, the 'n' is a nasal 'n' (ん).
Elongating the 'a' like 'denpaaa'.
Using English 'radio' instead of the Japanese word when speaking Japanese.

난이도

독해 2/5

The kanji are common, but beginners might struggle with the 'pa' reading of 波.

쓰기 3/5

Writing 'electricity' (電) requires 13 strokes and 'wave' (波) requires 8.

말하기 1/5

Very easy to pronounce and use in daily conversation.

듣기 1/5

Distinct sound, usually clear in context.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

電気 (electricity) 波 (wave) 電話 (phone) 入る (to enter) 悪い (bad)

다음에 배울 것

受信 (reception) 送信 (transmission) 圏外 (out of range) 通信 (communication) Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi)

고급

周波数 (frequency) 電磁波 (electromagnetic waves) 変調 (modulation) 回折 (diffraction)

알아야 할 문법

Using ～にくい with verbs to mean 'hard to...'

電波が入りにくい (The signal is hard to enter/get).

Using ～やすい with verbs to mean 'easy to/prone to...'

電波障害が起きやすい (Signal interference is prone to occur).

The conditional ～ば form for advice.

窓際に行けば電波が入ります (If you go to the window, the signal will come in).

The ～てしまう form for regrettable actions.

電波が切れてしまった (The signal unfortunately cut out).

The ～という appositive to define a noun.

電波という目に見えないもの (The invisible thing called 'denpa').

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수준별 예문

電波がないです。

I have no signal.

Simple Noun + Particle + Negative existence verb.

電波が弱いです。

The signal is weak.

Subject + Particle + Adjective.

ここは電波がいいですね。

The signal is good here, isn't it?

Location + Topic + Signal + Good + Particle.

電波が入りますか？

Do you have a signal? (Does the signal enter?)

Subject + Particle + Verb (to enter) + Question particle.

あ、電波が切れた。

Ah, the signal cut out.

Interjection + Subject + Particle + Verb (past tense).

電波を探しています。

I am looking for a signal.

Object + Particle + Verb (continuous form).

この電波時計、安いです。

This radio-controlled clock is cheap.

Compound noun + Adjective.

地下は電波が入りません。

The signal doesn't reach the basement.

Location + Topic + Signal + Negative verb.

電波の状態が悪くて、聞こえません。

The signal condition is bad, so I can't hear you.

Noun + Genitive + Noun + -te form (reason) + Potential negative verb.

電波が届くところで待ってください。

Please wait in a place where the signal reaches.

Relative clause + Noun + Particle + Command.

トンネルの中は電波が不安定です。

Inside the tunnel, the signal is unstable.

Location + Signal + Na-adjective.

スマホの電波が一本しかありません。

There is only one bar of signal on my smartphone.

Counter for long thin objects (hon) + shika...nai (only).

電波を遮断するケースを買いました。

I bought a case that blocks radio waves.

Relative clause + Object + Verb.

窓際に移動すれば電波が入りますよ。

If you move to the window, the signal will come in.

Conditional form (-ba) + Signal + Verb.

この建物は電波が通りにくいです。

It's hard for signals to pass through this building.

Verb stem + -nikui (hard to do).

電波が回復するまで待ちましょう。

Let's wait until the signal is restored.

Noun + Verb + Made (until) + Volitional form.

電波障害の影響で、テレビが映りません。

Due to signal interference, the TV isn't showing anything.

Cause + no eikyou de (due to the influence of).

山間部では、まだ電波が届かない場所が多い。

In mountainous areas, there are still many places where the signal doesn't reach.

Locative + Relative clause + Noun + Adjective.

電波に乗って、彼の声が全国に届けられた。

His voice was delivered nationwide over the airwaves.

Idiomatic expression 'denpa ni noru' (to be broadcast).

電子レンジから出る電波がWi-Fiに干渉する。

The waves from the microwave interfere with the Wi-Fi.

Source + Verb + Noun + Particle + Verb (to interfere).

電波の届かない圏外エリアに入ってしまった。

I've entered an 'out-of-service' area where the signal doesn't reach.

Kengai (out of range) + Area + -te shimau (regrettable action).

この島では、衛星からの電波を利用している。

On this island, they use radio waves from satellites.

Source + Particle + Object + Verb (continuous).

電波の強さを測定する機械を持っていますか？

Do you have a machine that measures signal strength?

Object + Particle + Relative clause + Noun.

昔の人は電波なんて想像もできなかっただろう。

People in the past probably couldn't even imagine things like radio waves.

Subject + Nante (emphasis/belittling) + Potential negative + Conjecture.

電波法に基づいて、この機器は認可されています。

This device is licensed based on the Radio Act.

Noun + ni motozuite (based on) + Passive verb.

都市部では電波が密集しており、混信が起こりやすい。

In urban areas, radio waves are crowded, and cross-talk/interference is likely to occur.

Verb stem + -yasui (easy to/prone to).

彼は電波系の発言が多くて、周囲を困惑させている。

He makes many 'out-there' (denpa-kei) comments, confusing those around him.

Slang usage of 'denpa-kei' + Causative verb.

新しい周波数帯の電波が携帯電話会社に割り当てられた。

Radio waves of a new frequency band were allocated to mobile phone companies.

Noun + Particle + Passive verb (to be allocated).

電波の回折現象により、ビルの陰でも受信が可能だ。

Due to wave diffraction, reception is possible even in the shadow of buildings.

Technical term (diffraction) + Noun + Particle + Potential noun.

違法な電波を発信することは、法律で禁じられている。

Transmitting illegal radio waves is prohibited by law.

Gerund phrase as subject + Passive verb.

この実験室は、外部の電波を完全に遮蔽している。

This laboratory completely shields against external radio waves.

Object + Adverb + Verb (to shield/screen).

電波の到達距離を伸ばすために、中継局を設置する。

In order to extend the reach of the signal, we will install a relay station.

Purpose (tame ni) + Object + Verb.

電波の偏波面を調整することで、通信品質が向上した。

By adjusting the polarization plane of the waves, communication quality improved.

Technical term (polarization) + Means (koto de) + Subject + Verb.

超短波の電波は直進性が強く、見通し範囲内での通信に適している。

VHF waves have strong line-of-sight properties and are suitable for communication within visual range.

Technical term (VHF) + Property + Particle + Suitable.

電波利用料の改定が、放送業界に大きな波紋を広げている。

The revision of radio wave usage fees is causing significant ripples in the broadcasting industry.

Compound noun + Subject + Metaphorical expression.

太陽フレアによって電波の伝搬に異常が生じる可能性がある。

There is a possibility that solar flares will cause abnormalities in wave propagation.

Cause + Noun + Particle + Potentiality.

電波の有効利用は、デジタル社会における喫緊の課題である。

The effective use of radio waves is an urgent issue in the digital society.

Subject + Formal copula + Noun phrase.

特定の周波数において、電波の吸収が顕著に見られる。

At specific frequencies, the absorption of radio waves is remarkably observed.

Locative + Subject + Adverb + Passive verb.

電波暗室での測定により、機器のノイズレベルを評価する。

We evaluate the noise level of the equipment through measurements in an anechoic chamber.

Technical term (anechoic chamber) + Means + Object + Verb.

高度な変調技術を用いて、限られた電波帯域で大容量送信を実現する。

Using advanced modulation techniques, we achieve high-capacity transmission within a limited bandwidth.

Means (-te form) + Limited + Noun + Object + Verb.

電波のコヒーレンス性が、干渉計測の精度を左右する鍵となる。

The coherence of the radio waves is the key that dictates the precision of interferometry.

Technical term (coherence) + Subject + Verb (to influence) + Noun.

電波資源の再配分を巡る議論は、政治的・経済的利害が複雑に絡み合っている。

Discussions surrounding the reallocation of radio wave resources are intricately intertwined with political and economic interests.

Compound noun + wo meguru (surrounding) + Complex adverb + Passive verb.

ミリ波帯の電波は減衰が激しいものの、超高速通信の実現には不可欠である。

Although millimeter-wave bands suffer from severe attenuation, they are indispensable for achieving ultra-high-speed communication.

Concessive (monono) + Necessary (fukaketsu).

電波天文学の発展により、宇宙の深淵に潜む謎が次々と解明されている。

With the development of radio astronomy, mysteries hidden in the depths of the universe are being unraveled one after another.

Technical term (radio astronomy) + Means + Passive verb (continuous).

電波の反射と散乱をシミュレーションし、最適なアンテナ配置を導き出す。

By simulating the reflection and scattering of waves, we derive the optimal antenna placement.

Compound nouns + Verb (stem form for linking) + Noun + Object + Verb.

電波の二重性と量子力学的側面に関する考察は、通信理論の根幹を成す。

Considerations regarding the duality and quantum mechanical aspects of radio waves form the backbone of communication theory.

Complex subject + ni kansuru (regarding) + Verb phrase.

電波という不可視の媒体が、現代文明の神経系としての役割を担っている。

The invisible medium known as radio waves bears the role of the nervous system for modern civilization.

Appositive (to iu) + Metaphorical expression.

電波の不法占拠は、公共の福祉を著しく損なう行為として厳しく罰せられる。

Illegal occupation of radio frequencies is severely punished as an act that significantly damages public welfare.

Formal noun phrase + Particle + Passive verb (severe).

동의어

信号通信周波数電磁波放送

반의어

有線遮断

자주 쓰는 조합

電波が入る

電波が届く

電波が弱い

電波時計

電波障害

電波塔

電波を発信する

電波を遮断する

電波の状態

電波法

자주 쓰는 구문

電波が悪い

— The reception is bad. Used when a call is choppy.

ごめん、電波が悪くて聞こえない。

電波がない

— No signal. Used when you have zero bars.

ここは電波がないから、後でメールする。

電波が入らない

— The signal isn't coming in. Similar to 'no signal'.

地下鉄は電波が入らない。

電波を探す

— To look for a signal. Walking around to find reception.

ちょっと電波探してくる。

電波が一本

— Only one bar of signal.

電波が一本しか立ってない。

電波にのる

— To be broadcast on TV or radio.

彼の曲がついに電波にのった。

電波ジャック

— Signal hijacking (taking over a broadcast).

犯人はテレビ局を電波ジャックした。

電波ゆんゆん

— Slang for someone who is crazy/hearing voices.

あの人は電波ゆんゆんな感じだ。

電波の無駄遣い

— A waste of airwaves (used to criticize bad TV programs).

あんな番組は電波の無駄遣いだ。

電波暗黒物質

— Radio dark matter (technical/sci-fi context).

宇宙の電波暗黒物質を研究する。

자주 혼동되는 단어

電波 vs 信号 (shingo)

English speakers use 'signal' for both. In Japanese, 'denpa' is the wave, 'shingo' is the sign/indicator.

電波 vs 電気 (denki)

Both start with 'den' (electric), but 'denki' is power/light, 'denpa' is wireless waves.

電波 vs Wi-Fi

Often used interchangeably, but 'denpa' is the broader category including 4G/5G.

관용어 및 표현

"電波に乗る"

— To be broadcast. It implies the content is traveling via waves to the public.

そのニュースはすぐに電波に乗った。

Neutral

"電波系"

— A person who acts weird or claims to hear things; 'eccentric'.

彼女は電波系の不思議ちゃんだった。

Slang

"電波が飛ぶ"

— For waves to travel/fly. Often used for Wi-Fi reach.

このルーターは遠くまで電波が飛ぶ。

Casual

"電波を売る"

— To sell airtime (broadcasting rights).

放送局は電波を売って利益を得る。

Business

"電波が通じる"

— The signal connects/works.

やっと電波が通じるようになった。

Neutral

"電波を切る"

— To turn off the signal (put phone in airplane mode).

飛行機では電波を切ってください。

Neutral

"電波を拾う"

— To pick up/catch a signal.

弱い電波を拾うアンテナ。

Neutral

"電波を出す"

— To emit/transmit waves.

この機器は強い電波を出します。

Technical

"電波が死んでいる"

— The signal is 'dead' (no reception at all).

この部屋、電波が死んでるね。

Slang

"電波の波"

— The fluctuations of signal strength.

電波の波が激しくて安定しない。

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

電波 vs 電磁波 (denjiha)

Both mean electromagnetic waves.

'Denpa' is specifically for communication frequencies. 'Denjiha' is the general scientific term for all EM radiation.

電子レンジは電磁波を出している。

電波 vs 周波数 (shuuhasuu)

Related to radio waves.

'Shuuhasuu' is the frequency (the number), while 'denpa' is the wave itself.

この電波の周波数は高い。

電波 vs 放送 (housou)

Both relate to TV/Radio.

'Housou' is the act of broadcasting content. 'Denpa' is the medium used to do it.

電波を使って放送する。

電波 vs 通信 (tsuushin)

Both relate to connectivity.

'Tsuushin' is the system of communication/data exchange. 'Denpa' is the physical carrier.

通信速度が遅い。

電波 vs 受信 (juushin)

Often used together.

'Juushin' is the verb/action of receiving. 'Denpa' is the object being received.

電波を受信する。

문장 패턴

[Location]は電波がない。

ここは電波がない。

電波が[Adjective]です。

電波が弱いです。

電波が[Verb-Potential]ない。

電波が入らない。

電波の影響で[Result]。

電波の影響でテレビが映らない。

[Technical Term]の電波を利用する。

超短波の電波を利用する。

電波の[Property]に関する考察。

電波の回折に関する考察。

電波が届く[Noun]。

電波が届く場所。

電波の[Noun]を確認する。

電波の状態を確認する。

어휘 가족

명사

電波 (radio wave)

電磁波 (electromagnetic wave)

電波塔 (radio tower)

電波時計 (radio clock)

동사

電波を発信する (to transmit waves)

電波を受信する (to receive waves)

형용사

電波的な (wave-like/eccentric)

사용법

frequency

Extremely high in modern urban life.

자주 하는 실수

Using 'denpa' for a traffic light. → 信号 (shingo)
Even though a traffic light is a 'signal', in Japanese 'denpa' only means radio waves.
Saying 'denpa ga arimasen' for a dead battery. → 充電がありません (juuden ga arimasen)
'Denpa' is the wireless signal, 'juuden' is the battery charge.
Saying 'denpa wo miru' to mean watching TV. → テレビを見る (terebi wo miru)
You watch the TV, not the radio waves that carry the image.
Confusing 'denpa' with 'denwa'. → 電波 (denpa) vs 電話 (denwa)
'Denwa' is the telephone itself. 'Denpa' is the signal it uses.
Using 'denpa' to mean 'internet' in a wired context. → インターネット (intaanetto)
If you are using an ethernet cable, there is no 'denpa' involved.

팁

Checking your phone

If you want to ask if there's a signal, say 'Denpa hairimasu ka?'. It's the most natural way to ask.

Verbs matter

Remember that 'denpa' usually 'enters' (hairu) or 'reaches' (todoku). Don't just say 'have denpa'.

Train Etiquette

Be aware of signs mentioning 'denpa' on trains. It's usually a request to be quiet or turn off devices.

Kanji Breakdown

電 (electricity) + 波 (wave). If you know 'denki' and 'nami', you already know 'denpa'!

The 'N' sound

The 'n' in 'denpa' is a bit soft, almost like it's preparing for the 'p'. Don't make it a hard 'm'.

Careful with Slang

Avoid calling people 'denpa' unless you are very close friends and joking. It can be offensive.

Radio Clocks

If you buy a 'denpa-dokei' in Japan, it might not work in your home country because it's tuned to Japanese frequencies!

News keywords

In the news, 'denpa' often appears with '5G' or 'shuuhasuu' (frequency).

Stroke Order

Make sure you get the stroke order of 電 right; the rain radical on top has 8 strokes.

Safety

In the mountains, 'denpa ga nai' is a serious safety warning. Always check your signal.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'DEN' as 'Electricity' (like a DEN of high-voltage lions) and 'PA' as a 'Wave' (like your PA waving hello from across the radio).

시각적 연상

Visualize a lightning bolt (DEN) hitting the ocean and creating a massive wave (PA). This wave carries your phone call.

Word Web

Smartphone Antenna Radio Wi-Fi Signal Electricity Wave Communication

챌린지

Try to go through your day and every time you look at your phone signal, say 'Denpa ga aru' (There is a signal) or 'Denpa ga yowai' (The signal is weak) in your head.

어원

The word 'Denpa' was coined in the late 19th century during Japan's Meiji era modernization. It combined 'Den' (electricity) and 'Pa' (wave) to translate Western scientific concepts of electromagnetism.

원래 의미: Physical electromagnetic waves.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

문화적 맥락

Be careful using 'denpa-kei' to describe a person, as it can imply they are mentally unstable or 'crazy.'

English speakers usually say 'signal' or 'reception.' We rarely say 'radio waves' unless we are being scientific.

Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko (Anime) Denpa Song (A genre of high-energy, quirky Japanese music) Tokyo Tower (The most famous denpa-tou in Japan)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Using a smartphone in a building.

電波が入らない
電波が弱い
電波がいい場所
電波を探す

Watching TV or listening to radio.

電波障害
電波に乗る
受信する
電波塔

Buying electronics.

電波時計
電波が飛ぶ
対応周波数
電波法

Hiking or traveling to remote areas.

圏外
電波が届かない
衛星電波
電波の確認

Work meetings/Zoom calls.

電波の状態
電波が不安定
一度切ります
聞こえにくい

대화 시작하기

"「すみません、この辺りって電波入りますか？」 (Excuse me, do you get a signal around here?)"

"「電波が悪くて、さっきの話が聞こえませんでした。」 (The signal was bad, so I couldn't hear what you said earlier.)"

"「最近、このビル電波が悪くないですか？」 (Hasn't the signal in this building been bad lately?)"

"「電波時計を使っているんですが、すごく正確ですよ。」 (I use a radio-controlled clock, and it's very accurate.)"

"「山の上でも電波が届くなんて、すごいですね。」 (It's amazing that the signal reaches even to the top of the mountain.)"

일기 주제

今日は電波が届かない場所へ行きました。どんな気持ちでしたか？ (Today I went to a place where the signal doesn't reach. how did you feel?)

もし世界中から電波が消えたら、あなたの生活はどう変わりますか？ (If radio waves disappeared from the world, how would your life change?)

電波時計と普通の時計、どちらが好きですか？その理由は？ (Do you like radio-controlled clocks or regular clocks? Why?)

スマホの電波が悪いとき、あなたはどうやって対処しますか？ (When your phone signal is bad, how do you deal with it?)

「電波系」という言葉について、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about the term 'denpa-kei'?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Yes, it is very common to say 'Denpa ga warui' when your Wi-Fi is slow or weak. While 'Wi-Fi' is also a common word, 'denpa' describes the physical signal reaching your device.

It's a slang term for someone who is 'out of it' or eccentric. It comes from the idea of someone 'receiving radio waves' that others can't hear. It can be used affectionately for a quirky person or more harshly for someone who seems delusional.

The word itself is neutral and used in all contexts. However, the phrases you use with it (like 'denpa ga nai' vs 'denpa ga hairimasen') determine the formality.

You can say 'Denpa ga ippai' (Full of signal) or 'Denpa ga saikou' (Signal is great). A common way to describe it is seeing how many 'bars' (hon) are showing: 'Denpa ga san-bon' (Three bars).

Yes, 'Eisei denpa' (Satellite waves) is the standard term for GPS or satellite TV signals.

Historically, there was a concern that 'denpa' (radio waves) from mobile phones could interfere with cardiac pacemakers. While modern technology has made this less of a risk, the rule persists in 'Priority Seat' areas as a matter of etiquette.

It is a 'radio-controlled clock.' It receives a long-wave time signal from a government transmitter to ensure it always shows the exact correct time.

No, for light you would use 'hikari' or the scientific term 'denjiha'. 'Denpa' is strictly for the radio frequency part of the spectrum.

A 'radio tower' or 'broadcasting tower.' Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are the most famous examples of 'denpa-tou'.

Only in slang contexts like 'denpa-kei.' In everyday use, it's a perfectly normal, neutral word.

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