This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B2 adjective #3,800 most common 16 min read

transmit

Top 3,800

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips transmit in 30 Seconds

Explanation transmit in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'transmit' might be a bit difficult because it is a formal word. However, you can think of it as a fancy way to say 'send' or 'pass.' Imagine you are sending a text message to a friend. You are 'sending' the message, but in a more adult or scientific way, the phone is 'transmitting' the message. You might also hear it when people talk about the radio or TV. The big tower sends the show to your house; it 'transmits' the show. At this level, just remember that 'transmit' means sending something through the air or through a wire. It is like a secret code moving from one place to another. You don't need to use it every day, but if you see it, just think 'send.' For example, 'The radio transmits music.' This is a simple way to understand it. You can also think about how a cold moves from one person to another. If you have a cold and you sneeze, you might 'transmit' the germs to your friend. It's like giving something to someone else without using your hands. It's an invisible way of giving or sending. So, when you see 'transmit,' think of a bridge that carries things like music, messages, or even germs from one side to the other. It's a very useful word to know as you start learning more about technology and health.

For A2 learners, 'transmit' is a word you will start to see in simple science or technology articles. It's a step up from the word 'send.' While 'send' is used for physical things like letters or emails, 'transmit' is often used for things we cannot see, like signals, waves, or diseases. Think about your television. It doesn't have a long wire going all the way to the TV station. Instead, the station 'transmits' a signal through the air, and your TV catches it. This is a very common use of the word. You can also use it to talk about how diseases spread. If someone is sick, they can 'transmit' the virus to other people. This is a more formal way of saying they 'pass it on.' In your English studies, you might see it in sentences like 'The internet transmits data very fast' or 'Mosquitoes transmit some diseases.' It's important to notice that 'transmit' usually involves a medium—something in the middle that helps the thing move, like the air, a wire, or an insect. By using 'transmit' instead of 'send,' you are starting to use more specific and academic English. It shows that you understand how things move in a technical or biological way. Try to look for this word when you read about computers or health, and you will see how often it is used to describe these invisible movements.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'transmit' in specific contexts, especially in technical, medical, or formal situations. You understand that it's more than just 'sending'; it's about the process of movement through a medium. For example, in a science class, you might discuss how heat is 'transmitted' through metal. In a discussion about the news, you might talk about how a radio station 'transmits' its broadcast to a wide area. You are also starting to see the noun form, 'transmission.' A car has a 'transmission' because it 'transmits' power from the engine to the wheels. This shows you how the word is used in different fields. You can also use it to describe the spread of information or culture. For instance, 'Traditions are transmitted from parents to children.' This is a more sophisticated way to talk about how we learn things from our families. At this level, you should also be aware of the passive voice: 'The signal was transmitted.' This is very common in formal writing. Using 'transmit' correctly helps you sound more professional and precise. It's a key word for moving from basic communication to more detailed and academic discussions. You'll find it in textbooks, news reports, and technical manuals. Practice using it when you describe how things like data, energy, or infections move from one point to another.

At the B2 level, 'transmit' is a word you should use with confidence in both speaking and writing. You are expected to understand its nuances and how it differs from similar words like 'transfer' or 'convey.' As a B2 learner, you know that 'transmit' is the preferred term in scientific and technical discourse. For instance, you would use it to describe how data packets are transmitted over a network or how a pathogen is transmitted through a population. You also understand its abstract uses, such as 'transmitting' a message, a feeling, or a set of values. You can use it in complex sentences, such as 'The researchers found that the virus is transmitted more easily in cold weather.' You should also be familiar with the word's various forms, including 'transmission,' 'transmitter,' and 'transmissible.' For example, you might discuss the 'transmissibility' of a new flu strain. At this level, you are also aware of the formal register of the word. You know that saying 'The document was transmitted to the department' sounds more official than 'The document was sent to the department.' This distinction is important for professional communication. You can also use it to describe the mechanical process of power transfer in engineering contexts. Overall, 'transmit' at the B2 level is a versatile tool that allows you to describe complex processes of movement and communication with precision and formality.

For C1 learners, 'transmit' is a nuanced word that you can use to add precision and a formal tone to your work. You understand that it is not just about the act of sending, but often implies a systematic or natural process of delivery. You can use it to describe the 'transmission' of cultural heritage, where 'transmit' suggests a deliberate and vital process of passing on knowledge and values across generations. In academic writing, you might use it to discuss the 'transmission' of ideas through literature or the 'transmission' of signals in complex biological systems. You are also capable of using it in more metaphorical ways, such as how a leader might 'transmit' their vision to an entire organization, implying a sense of inspiration and clear communication. You understand the technical specifications of the word, such as 'bitrate' and 'bandwidth' in the context of data transmission. You are also adept at using the word in legal and administrative contexts, where 'transmit' refers to the formal delivery of documents or authority. For instance, 'The court transmitted the decree to the local authorities.' At the C1 level, you should also be able to distinguish 'transmit' from synonyms like 'disseminate' or 'impart' based on the desired emphasis—whether it's the breadth of the audience or the value of the information being shared. Your use of 'transmit' should reflect a deep understanding of its formal, technical, and abstract applications.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'transmit' is complete. You use it with effortless precision across a vast array of contexts, from the highly technical to the deeply philosophical. You understand its etymological roots and how they inform its modern usage. In scientific discourse, you might discuss the 'quantum transmission' of information or the 'mechanisms of viral transmission' with expert-level detail. In the humanities, you might analyze how 'cultural memes are transmitted' through social media, using the word to bridge the gap between biology and sociology. You are also comfortable with the word's most formal applications in law and diplomacy, where the 'transmission of power' or the 'transmission of diplomatic notes' carries significant weight. Your writing uses 'transmit' to create a specific tone—one of authority, clarity, and sophistication. You can also play with the word's potential for metaphor, perhaps describing how a piece of music 'transmits the composer's inner turmoil' to the listener. You are aware of the subtle differences in meaning when 'transmit' is used as a transitive vs. intransitive verb in specialized fields. Furthermore, you can critically evaluate the use of 'transmit' in various texts, noticing when it is used to provide a veneer of scientific authority or when it is the most accurate term available. At this level, 'transmit' is not just a word you know; it is a precise instrument in your linguistic toolkit, used to describe the complex flow of energy, information, and life itself.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

transmit in 30 Seconds

To transmit is a formal verb meaning to send or pass something, such as data, signals, or diseases, from one point to another.
It is primarily used in technical, medical, and scientific contexts to describe the systematic movement of information or biological agents.
Common examples include a radio station transmitting music, a mosquito transmitting a virus, or a teacher transmitting knowledge to students.
The word implies the use of a medium, like air or wires, and is often found in passive voice in academic writing.

The word transmit is a multifaceted verb that primarily describes the act of passing something from one place, person, or entity to another. While it is often associated with technical or scientific contexts, its application spans across various domains including biology, telecommunications, sociology, and daily communication. At its core, to transmit is to act as a conduit or a bridge. When we talk about transmission, we are focusing on the movement of an object, a signal, or an idea through a medium. For instance, in the realm of technology, engineers work tirelessly to ensure that data packets transmit across fiber-optic cables with minimal latency. Here, the focus is on the efficiency and integrity of the signal. In a completely different setting, a doctor might discuss how certain pathogens transmit through respiratory droplets, emphasizing the biological pathway of a disease. The word carries a sense of movement and delivery, often implying a systematic or natural process rather than a random occurrence.

Technical Usage: In electronics and telecommunications, to transmit refers to the sending of electromagnetic waves or signals. This is the foundation of radio, television, and internet connectivity. When a radio station broadcasts music, it uses a transmitter to send out waves that your car's antenna picks up. The clarity of the sound depends on how well the signal was able to transmit through the atmosphere without interference.

The new satellite was designed specifically to transmit high-definition video signals to remote areas of the globe where traditional cable infrastructure is nonexistent.

Beyond the technical, the word is indispensable in the medical and biological sciences. It describes the spread of infections or genetic traits. When a virus moves from an animal host to a human, scientists study the mechanisms that allowed it to transmit across species. Similarly, geneticists look at how certain hereditary conditions are transmitted from parents to offspring. In these cases, 'transmit' implies a hand-off of biological information or material. It is a more formal and precise term than 'spread' or 'pass on,' making it the preferred choice in academic and professional reports.

Cultural Usage: Sociologists use 'transmit' to describe the way traditions, languages, and social norms are passed down through generations. For example, oral histories are a way for a community to transmit its heritage and values to the youth. This usage highlights the word's ability to handle abstract concepts just as easily as physical signals.

Cultural rituals serve as a vital mechanism to transmit a sense of identity and belonging to the next generation.

In the context of mechanics, 'transmit' refers to the transfer of power or motion. A car's transmission system is so named because its primary function is to transmit power from the engine to the wheels. Without this crucial process, the energy generated by the combustion of fuel would have no way to move the vehicle forward. This mechanical definition emphasizes the physical connection and the conversion of energy into action. It shows that 'transmit' is not just about moving 'stuff' but about enabling functionality.

The gears are engineered to transmit torque efficiently, ensuring the machine operates at peak performance.

Legal and Formal Contexts: In legal documents, you might see 'transmit' used to describe the official delivery of documents or authority. For instance, a court might transmit its findings to a higher authority for review. This underscores the word's association with formal, structured, and official processes.

The committee will transmit the final report to the board of directors by the end of the business day.

To prevent the flu, it is important to understand how the virus can transmit through surface contact.

In summary, 'transmit' is a powerful and versatile word. Whether you are discussing the latest 5G technology, the spread of a seasonal cold, the mechanics of a high-performance sports car, or the preservation of ancient traditions, 'transmit' provides the necessary precision and formality. It suggests a process that is deliberate, measurable, and often critical to the functioning of a larger system. By using 'transmit,' you elevate your language and clearly communicate the concept of movement and delivery across space, time, or media.

Using the word transmit correctly requires an understanding of its typical grammatical structures and the contexts in which it thrives. Most commonly, it functions as a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object—the thing being sent or passed. However, it can also appear in the passive voice, which is very frequent in scientific and technical writing where the focus is on the object rather than the sender. For example, 'The signal was transmitted' is often more relevant than 'The station transmitted the signal.' Understanding these nuances will help you integrate the word seamlessly into your writing and speech.

Direct Object Patterns: The most straightforward way to use 'transmit' is: [Subject] + transmit + [Object]. The object can be physical (like a document), biological (like a virus), or abstract (like a feeling or a message). For example: 'The router transmits data to multiple devices simultaneously.'

Mosquitoes can transmit malaria to humans through their bites.

When discussing the medium or the method, we often use prepositions like 'via,' 'through,' or 'by.' This adds detail to how the transmission occurs. For instance, 'The news was transmitted via satellite.' This tells the listener not just that the news was sent, but the specific technology used to do so. In biological contexts, we might say a disease is transmitted through contaminated water. These prepositional phrases are essential for providing clarity in complex sentences.

Passive Voice in Science: In academic papers, you will frequently see: [Object] + [be] + transmitted + [Prepositional Phrase]. This structure emphasizes the phenomenon rather than the actor. Example: 'The genetic mutation was transmitted from the father to the daughter.'

Radio waves are transmitted through the air and captured by receivers.

Another interesting usage is when 'transmit' is used to describe the communication of feelings or moods. While less common than technical usage, it is highly evocative. If a leader is nervous, they might transmit that anxiety to their team. In this sense, the 'signal' being sent is emotional. It implies that the emotion is contagious and moves from one person to others through their presence or tone of voice. This usage is excellent for creative writing or psychological analysis.

The speaker's enthusiasm was transmitted to the entire audience, leaving them feeling inspired.

Transmission of Knowledge: In educational contexts, 'transmit' is used to describe the transfer of information. 'The teacher's goal is to transmit complex ideas in a simple way.' This suggests a deliberate effort to move knowledge from one mind to another.

Books have been used for centuries to transmit the wisdom of the past to the readers of the present.

The fiber-optic cable can transmit millions of bits of data every second.

Finally, consider the negative forms. 'Do not transmit sensitive information over public Wi-Fi' is a common piece of advice in cybersecurity. Here, 'transmit' serves as a formal warning about the movement of data. By using this word, the speaker highlights the risk involved in the process of sending data. Whether you are writing a technical manual, a medical report, or a story about a charismatic leader, 'transmit' offers a precise way to describe the flow of things—be they tangible or intangible—from one point to another.

The word transmit is a staple in many professional and academic environments. If you find yourself in a hospital, a laboratory, a radio station, or a software development firm, you will hear this word used frequently and with high precision. It is also common in news broadcasts, especially when reporting on public health crises or breakthroughs in communication technology. Because it sounds more formal than 'send' or 'pass,' it is the word of choice for experts who want to sound authoritative and clear. Let's explore some of the real-world scenarios where 'transmit' is part of the daily vocabulary.

In the Tech World: Network engineers and IT professionals use 'transmit' constantly. They talk about the rate at which data is transmitted (bitrate), the protocols used to transmit information securely (like HTTPS), and the hardware needed to transmit signals over long distances. If your internet is slow, a technician might check if the router is transmitting properly.

'We need to ensure the server can transmit the updates to all clients simultaneously without crashing.'

In the medical field, the word takes on a more serious tone. Doctors and epidemiologists use it to describe the path of an infection. You'll hear it in phrases like 'community transmission' or 'mother-to-child transmission.' During a flu season, public health announcements will often explain how the virus transmits through the air or on surfaces. This usage is vital for public safety, as it helps people understand how to avoid getting sick. Using 'transmit' here emphasizes the biological mechanism of the spread.

Broadcasting and Media: Radio and TV producers use 'transmit' to describe the literal broadcasting of their shows. A 'transmitter' is a piece of equipment that sends out the show's signal. If a station goes off the air, they might say they are 'unable to transmit.' This is the most literal and historical use of the word in the modern age.

The emergency broadcast system will transmit a warning signal if severe weather is detected in the area.

In the automotive industry, 'transmit' is heard in the context of the 'transmission' system. Mechanics will talk about how the car transmits power from the engine to the wheels. If you've ever had 'transmission trouble,' you know exactly how important this process is. While the noun form is more common here, the verb is used to describe the action of the gears and shafts working together to move the vehicle. It's a very physical, mechanical application of the word.

The hybrid system is designed to transmit power from both the electric motor and the gasoline engine to the drivetrain.

Science and Physics: In a physics classroom, you'll hear about how light transmits through different materials. Some materials are transparent and transmit light easily, while others are opaque and block it. This usage focuses on the interaction between energy and matter.

Glass is an excellent material because it can transmit visible light while blocking most ultraviolet radiation.

Scientists are studying how the nervous system can transmit pain signals so quickly from the skin to the brain.

Whether you are listening to a podcast about technology, reading a medical journal, or talking to a mechanic, 'transmit' is a word that signals a transition of something significant from one point to another. It is precise, versatile, and widely used in professional English. By paying attention to these contexts, you can start to use 'transmit' with the same level of accuracy and confidence as a native speaker or an expert in the field.

While transmit is a very useful word, it is often confused with other similar verbs like 'transfer,' 'transport,' or 'broadcast.' Using the wrong word can change the meaning of your sentence or make it sound unnatural to a native speaker. Let's break down these common pitfalls and see how to avoid them. One of the most frequent errors is using 'transmit' when 'transfer' would be more appropriate. While both involve moving something, 'transfer' is more about moving ownership or a physical object from one place to another, while 'transmit' is more about sending a signal or a biological agent.

Transmit vs. Transfer: Think of 'transfer' as moving a physical object or a person. You transfer to a new school, or you transfer money between bank accounts. 'Transmit' is for signals, data, or diseases. You wouldn't 'transmit' money (unless you're talking about the electronic signal of the transaction, which is very technical). Usually, you 'transfer' funds.

Incorrect: I need to transmit some money to my brother's account.
Correct: I need to transfer some money to my brother's account.

Another common confusion is between 'transmit' and 'transport.' 'Transport' is almost always about physical movement, usually involving vehicles. You transport goods in a truck or transport passengers on a plane. You don't 'transmit' passengers. 'Transmit' is for things that are often invisible, like waves, data, or germs. If you say you are 'transmitting' goods, it might sound like you are teleporting them! Stick to 'transport' for physical items and people.

Transmit vs. Broadcast: 'Broadcast' is a specific type of transmission. To broadcast is to transmit a signal to many people at once, like a TV show. 'Transmit' is more general and can be one-to-one (like a text message) or one-to-many. If you use 'broadcast' for a private message, it sounds like you're telling the whole world!

Incorrect: The doctor broadcasted the test results to the patient.
Correct: The doctor transmitted (or sent) the test results to the patient.

A subtle mistake is using 'transmit' without a clear medium or destination. Since 'transmit' implies a process of movement, a sentence like 'The machine transmits' feels incomplete. Transmits what? To where? Always try to include the object and, if possible, the destination or method. This makes your communication much clearer. Also, be careful with the word 'transmissible.' It's an adjective that means 'able to be transmitted,' usually used for diseases. Don't confuse it with 'transparent' or 'translucent'!

Incorrect: The flu is very transparent this year.
Correct: The flu is very transmissible this year.

The 'To' vs. 'With' Mistake: We usually transmit something *to* someone or *through* a medium. We rarely transmit *with* someone unless we are both operating a transmitter together. Example: 'He transmitted the files to me' (Correct). 'He transmitted the files with me' (Incorrect, unless you were both pushing the button).

The station will transmit the signal to all receivers in the tri-state area.

It is crucial to transmit accurate information during a crisis to avoid panic.

By avoiding these common errors, you'll be able to use 'transmit' with precision and authority. Remember to focus on the nature of what is being moved: if it's a signal, data, or a disease, 'transmit' is likely your best choice. If it's a physical object or a person, look for words like 'transfer' or 'transport.' With practice, these distinctions will become second nature, and your English will sound more sophisticated and professional.

In English, having a variety of words to choose from allows you to be more precise and avoid repetition. While transmit is an excellent word, there are several synonyms and alternatives that might be better suited for specific situations. Understanding the subtle differences between 'transmit,' 'convey,' 'disseminate,' and 'broadcast' will help you choose the right tool for the job. Each of these words implies a movement of information or objects, but they differ in their 'flavor'—some are more formal, some more technical, and some more focused on the audience. Let's compare them to see when to use which.

Convey: 'Convey' is often used for feelings, ideas, or meanings. If you want to say that a painting makes you feel sad, you might say it 'conveys a sense of melancholy.' While 'transmit' could be used here, 'convey' sounds more artistic and less technical. It suggests that the meaning is being 'carried' to the viewer.

The author uses vivid imagery to convey the harshness of the winter landscape.

'Disseminate' is a very formal word that means to spread information or knowledge widely. It's often used in academic or organizational contexts. You might disseminate a new policy to all employees or disseminate research findings to the scientific community. 'Transmit' is more about the act of sending, while 'disseminate' is more about the wide reach of the information. Think of it as 'sowing seeds' of knowledge over a large area.

Broadcast: As mentioned before, 'broadcast' is a specialized form of transmission. It specifically refers to sending signals over radio or TV to a wide audience. In a more modern sense, you can 'broadcast' your life on social media. It implies a public, wide-reaching transmission. 'Transmit' is more neutral and could be private or public.

The news station will broadcast the election results live as they come in.

'Impart' is another formal alternative, often used when talking about giving a quality or a piece of information to someone. A teacher might 'impart wisdom' to their students. This word suggests a sense of sharing or bestowing something valuable. 'Transmit' sounds more like a neutral process, while 'impart' sounds more personal and intentional. It's a great word for mentors and educators to use.

The mentor sought to impart her years of experience to the new interns.

Communicate: 'Communicate' is the most general and common alternative. It covers everything from talking to a friend to sending a signal. While 'transmit' is a specific way of communicating (sending a signal), 'communicate' focuses on the exchange of information and the understanding between two parties.

It is important to communicate clearly with your team to ensure everyone is on the same page.

The satellite can transmit data even in the middle of a solar storm.

By exploring these synonyms, you can see how 'transmit' fits into a larger family of words related to sending and sharing. Choosing the right one depends on your audience and the specific context of your message. Whether you want to sound technical, artistic, formal, or personal, there is a word that fits perfectly. 'Transmit' remains the gold standard for describing the process of sending signals, data, and biological agents, but don't be afraid to branch out and use its 'cousins' when the situation calls for a different nuance.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'mission' comes from the same Latin root 'mittere'. So, a 'mission' is something you are 'sent' to do, and 'transmit' is the act of 'sending across'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /trænzˈmɪt/

US /trænsˈmɪt/

trans-MIT

Rhymes With

admit commit permit submit omit remit acquit befit

Common Errors

Stressing the first syllable (TRANS-mit)
Pronouncing the 'i' like an 'ee' (trans-MEET)
Forgetting the 't' sound at the end.
Pronouncing the 'n' too softly.
Using a long 'a' sound like in 'train'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and textbooks, easy to recognize but formal.

Writing 6/5

Requires understanding of collocations like 'transmit data' or 'transmit disease'.

Speaking 5/5

Useful in professional settings, but 'send' is more common in daily talk.

Listening 4/5

Clearly pronounced, usually easy to hear in technical contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

send pass signal radio disease

Learn Next

disseminate convey broadcast mechanism protocol

Advanced

transmissibility neurotransmitter transmittance transponder transceiver

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verb Usage

You must transmit *the data* (object).

Passive Voice for Processes

The virus *is transmitted* (passive) by mosquitoes.

Double Consonant Rule

Transmit becomes transmi**tt**ed and transmi**tt**ing.

Infinitive of Purpose

He used a radio *to transmit* the signal.

Preposition 'Via'

The news was transmitted *via* satellite.

Examples by Level

The radio can transmit music to your car.

Le radio peut transmettre de la musique à votre voiture.

Subject + can + verb (base form).

Phones transmit our voices to our friends.

Les téléphones transmettent nos voix à nos amis.

Present simple for a general fact.

Does the TV transmit the news?

Est-ce que la télé transmet les informations ?

Question form with 'does'.

The sun transmits light to the Earth.

Le soleil transmet de la lumière à la Terre.

Third-person singular 's'.

Wash your hands so you don't transmit germs.

Lave-toi les mains pour ne pas transmettre de microbes.

Imperative + 'so you don't' + verb.

They transmit the signal from the tower.

Ils transmettent le signal depuis la tour.

Present simple with 'they'.

Can you transmit the file to me?

Peux-tu me transmettre le fichier ?

Modal 'can' for a request.

The computer transmits data through the wire.

L'ordinateur transmet des données par le fil.

Present simple with 'through'.

The satellite transmits weather information every hour.

Le satellite transmet des informations météo toutes les heures.

Present simple with a frequency expression.

Some insects transmit diseases when they bite.

Certains insectes transmettent des maladies quand ils piquent.

Plural subject + verb.

The station will transmit the show live tonight.

La station transmettra l'émission en direct ce soir.

Future simple with 'will'.

He used a small device to transmit the message.

Il a utilisé un petit appareil pour transmettre le message.

Past simple + infinitive of purpose.

How does the internet transmit video so fast?

Comment internet transmet-il de la vidéo si vite ?

Interrogative with 'how'.

The old radio failed to transmit a clear signal.

La vieille radio n'a pas réussi à transmettre un signal clair.

Past simple negative with 'failed to'.

We need a better antenna to transmit the signal.

Nous avons besoin d'une meilleure antenne pour transmettre le signal.

'Need' + infinitive.

The virus can transmit through the air.

Le virus peut se transmettre par l'air.

Modal 'can' for possibility.

The car's gearbox transmits power to the wheels.

La boîte de vitesses de la voiture transmet la puissance aux roues.

Possessive 's' + present simple.

Cultural values are transmitted from generation to generation.

Les valeurs culturelles sont transmises de génération en génération.

Passive voice (are transmitted).

The data was transmitted securely using encryption.

Les données ont été transmises en toute sécurité grâce au cryptage.

Past passive + adverb.

Scientists are studying how the nerve cells transmit pain.

Les scientifiques étudient comment les cellules nerveuses transmettent la douleur.

Present continuous + indirect question.

The teacher tried to transmit her love of history to the students.

L'enseignante a essayé de transmettre son amour de l'histoire aux élèves.

Past simple + infinitive of purpose.

It is illegal to transmit false emergency signals.

Il est illégal de transmettre de faux signaux d'urgence.

'It is' + adjective + infinitive.

The fiber-optic cable can transmit huge amounts of data.

Le câble à fibre optique peut transmettre d'énormes quantités de données.

Modal 'can' + adjective-noun phrase.

The infection is transmitted by contaminated water.

L'infection est transmise par de l'eau contaminée.

Passive voice with 'by' agent.

The new 5G network can transmit data at incredible speeds.

Le nouveau réseau 5G peut transmettre des données à des vitesses incroyables.

Noun phrase + modal + prepositional phrase.

Hereditary traits are transmitted through DNA.

Les traits héréditaires sont transmis par l'ADN.

Passive voice in a scientific context.

The captain transmitted a distress signal after the engine failed.

Le capitaine a transmis un signal de détresse après la panne du moteur.

Past simple + 'after' clause.

Certain materials transmit heat more efficiently than others.

Certains matériaux transmettent la chaleur plus efficacement que d'autres.

Comparative structure.

The report was transmitted to the board for final approval.

Le rapport a été transmis au conseil pour approbation finale.

Past passive + prepositional phrase.

Can stress be transmitted from parents to children?

Le stress peut-il être transmis des parents aux enfants ?

Passive modal question.

The station transmits on a frequency of 101.1 MHz.

La station émet sur une fréquence de 101,1 MHz.

Intransitive use with 'on'.

He failed to transmit the urgency of the situation to his boss.

Il n'a pas réussi à transmettre l'urgence de la situation à son patron.

Negative past simple + abstract object.

The oral tradition serves to transmit the community's history.

La tradition orale sert à transmettre l'histoire de la communauté.

Complex subject + 'serves to' + infinitive.

The virus has the potential to transmit across different species.

Le virus a le potentiel de se transmettre entre différentes espèces.

'Potential to' + infinitive.

The nervous system transmits impulses at lightning speed.

Le système nerveux transmet des impulsions à la vitesse de l'éclair.

Present simple with a metaphorical phrase.

The documents were transmitted via a secure diplomatic courier.

Les documents ont été transmis par un courrier diplomatique sécurisé.

Passive voice + 'via' + complex noun phrase.

Art is a powerful medium to transmit human emotions.

L'art est un médium puissant pour transmettre les émotions humaines.

Noun + 'to transmit' as an adjective phrase.

The satellite is designed to transmit high-resolution imagery.

Le satellite est conçu pour transmettre des images haute résolution.

Passive 'is designed' + infinitive.

The bacteria can transmit antibiotic resistance to other strains.

Les bactéries peuvent transmettre la résistance aux antibiotiques à d'autres souches.

Scientific context with modal 'can'.

The leader's confidence was transmitted to the entire team.

La confiance du leader a été transmise à toute l'équipe.

Passive voice with an abstract subject.

The treaty governs how nuclear technology may be transmitted.

Le traité régit la manière dont la technologie nucléaire peut être transmise.

Complex sentence with a subordinate 'how' clause.

The inherent ambiguity of the message failed to transmit the intended meaning.

L'ambiguïté inhérente du message n'a pas réussi à transmettre le sens voulu.

Abstract noun phrase as subject.

Synaptic transmission is the process by which neurons transmit signals.

La transmission synaptique est le processus par lequel les neurones transmettent des signaux.

Defining a process using a relative clause.

The virus's ability to transmit asymptomatically made it difficult to contain.

La capacité du virus à se transmettre de manière asymptomatique l'a rendu difficile à contenir.

Gerund-like infinitive phrase as part of a subject.

The power grid is engineered to transmit electricity over thousands of miles.

Le réseau électrique est conçu pour transmettre l'électricité sur des milliers de kilomètres.

Passive 'is engineered' + infinitive + distance phrase.

Philosophers debate how language can transmit truth across cultures.

Les philosophes débattent de la manière dont le langage peut transmettre la vérité à travers les cultures.

Reporting verb + 'how' clause.

The encryption protocol ensures that no sensitive data is transmitted in plain text.

Le protocole de cryptage garantit qu'aucune donnée sensible n'est transmise en texte clair.

Complex sentence with a 'that' clause and passive voice.

The museum's mission is to transmit the legacy of the Enlightenment.

La mission du musée est de transmettre l'héritage des Lumières.

Subject complement using an infinitive phrase.

Synonyms

broadcast convey relay transfer disseminate communicate

Antonyms

receive absorb withhold

Common Collocations

transmit data

transmit a signal

transmit a disease

transmit information

transmit power

transmit heat

transmit a message

transmit values

transmit electricity

transmit live

Common Phrases

transmit a virus

— To spread a biological infection to others.

It is easy to transmit a virus in a crowded room.

transmit by radio

— To send a signal using radio waves.

The news was transmitted by radio to the remote islands.

transmit a feeling

— To make others feel the same emotion you are feeling.

Her excitement was transmitted to everyone in the room.

transmit data packets

— A technical term for sending small pieces of data over a network.

The router is designed to transmit data packets efficiently.

transmit across species

— When a disease moves from animals to humans.

Scientists worry when a virus can transmit across species.

transmit through a medium

— To pass through something like air, water, or wire.

Sound waves transmit through the air at a specific speed.

transmit a legacy

— To pass on a heritage or set of achievements.

The founder wanted to transmit his legacy to his children.

transmit in real-time

— To send information as it is happening.

The camera transmits the video in real-time to the security office.

transmit securely

— To send information in a way that others cannot steal it.

Always ensure your bank details are transmitted securely.

transmit a command

— To send an instruction to a machine or person.

The computer transmits a command to the printer to start.

Often Confused With

transmit vs transfer

Transfer is for moving physical things or ownership; transmit is for signals or diseases.

transmit vs transport

Transport is for moving things or people in vehicles; transmit is for waves or information.

transmit vs broadcast

Broadcast is a specific type of transmission to a wide public audience.

Idioms & Expressions

"transmit a vibe"

— To give off a certain feeling or atmosphere without speaking.

He transmits a very positive vibe whenever he enters a room.

informal

"get the message transmitted"

— To successfully make someone understand something.

I finally got the message transmitted that I was unhappy.

neutral

"transmit on the same wavelength"

— To think in a similar way or understand each other perfectly.

My best friend and I are always transmitting on the same wavelength.

informal

"transmit the torch"

— To pass on a responsibility or tradition (similar to 'pass the torch').

The old coach is ready to transmit the torch to the new one.

neutral

"transmit a cold"

— A common way to say you gave someone your illness.

I'm sorry I transmitted my cold to you.

neutral

"transmit the signal"

— To give a sign that it is time to start something.

Once he nods, that will transmit the signal to begin the show.

neutral

"transmit loud and clear"

— To communicate something very effectively and without confusion.

Your instructions were transmitted loud and clear.

neutral

"transmit through the grapevine"

— To spread news or rumors through informal talk.

The news of the merger was transmitted through the grapevine.

informal

"transmit a spark"

— To inspire someone or start an idea.

Her speech transmitted a spark of hope to the audience.

creative

"transmit the word"

— To tell everyone a piece of news.

Please transmit the word that the meeting has been canceled.

neutral

Easily Confused

transmit vs Transfer

Both mean moving something from A to B.

Transfer is for physical items (money, students, files). Transmit is for signals or biological agents.

I will transfer the money, but the bank will transmit the confirmation signal.

transmit vs Transport

Both involve movement.

Transport involves a vehicle (truck, plane). Transmit involves a medium (air, wire).

The truck transports the radio, but the radio transmits the music.

transmit vs Convey

Both mean to pass something along.

Convey is more about meaning and feelings. Transmit is more technical and scientific.

The poem conveys love, but the computer transmits the poem's text.

transmit vs Broadcast

Both involve sending signals.

Broadcast is for a large, public audience. Transmit can be private or public.

I will transmit a private message to you, but the station will broadcast it to everyone.

transmit vs Emit

Both involve things coming out of a source.

Emit is just giving off something (light, smell). Transmit is sending it *to* a destination.

The sun emits light, and the glass transmits that light to the room.

Sentence Patterns

The [thing] transmits [something].

The radio transmits music.

How does [thing] transmit [something]?

How does the phone transmit my voice?

[Something] is transmitted by [agent].

The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes.

[Subject] failed to transmit [object] to [recipient].

The company failed to transmit the documents to the lawyer.

[Abstract concept] is transmitted through [medium].

Culture is transmitted through language.

The [noun] of [something] being transmitted is [adjective].

The efficiency of data being transmitted is crucial.

Academic

It is hypothesized that [subject] transmits [object] via [medium].

It is hypothesized that the virus transmits via aerosols.

Technical

The protocol ensures that [data] is transmitted at [rate].

The protocol ensures that data is transmitted at 100 Mbps.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High in scientific, technical, and medical domains; moderate in general English.

Common Mistakes

I need to transmit this book to you. → I need to send/give this book to you.
'Transmit' is not used for physical objects like books.
The data transmitted. → The data was transmitted.
In most cases, you need the passive voice because the data doesn't send itself.
The flu is very transmitting. → The flu is very transmissible.
Use the adjective 'transmissible' to describe how easily a disease spreads.
He transmited the file. → He transmitted the file.
You forgot the second 't' in the past tense spelling.
The station broadcasted the signal. → The station transmitted the signal.
While 'broadcasted' is sometimes used, 'transmitted' is more technical and 'broadcast' (without -ed) is often preferred as the past tense of 'broadcast'.

Tips

Double the 'T'

Always remember to double the 't' when you add -ed or -ing: transmitted, transmitting. This is a common spelling mistake.

Professional Tone

Use 'transmit' in business emails when referring to official documents or data to sound more professional.

Science Writing

In science, use 'transmit' to describe how energy (heat, light) or signals move through a material.

Noun Form

Learn the noun 'transmission' alongside the verb, as it is very common in medical and automotive contexts.

Clear Stress

Focus on the second syllable: trans-MIT. Saying TRANS-mit sounds like you are using it as a noun in some dialects, but the verb always stresses the end.

Avoid Placeholders

Instead of saying 'The computer sends the data,' say 'The computer transmits the data' for more precision.

Common Pairs

Memorize 'transmit data' and 'transmit disease' as these are the most frequent pairings you will encounter.

Technical News

When listening to tech news, 'transmit' often refers to 5G, satellites, or internet speeds.

Disease Spread

Use 'transmit' to describe the biological path of a virus, which is more accurate than just saying it 'moves'.

Abstract Ideas

Use 'transmit' to describe how a teacher or parent passes on knowledge or values to the next generation.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'TRANsmitter' on a 'MITten'. The MITten is sending a signal across (TRANS) the room.

Visual Association

Imagine a radio tower sending out glowing blue waves that travel across a city to a small radio.

Word Web

Signal Data Disease Radio Internet Waves Send Receive

Challenge

Write three sentences: one about a disease, one about technology, and one about a feeling, all using the word 'transmit'.

Word Origin

From the Latin word 'transmittere', which is made of 'trans-' (across) and 'mittere' (to send). It literally means 'to send across'.

Original meaning: To send across, pass on, or let through.

Indo-European (Latin branch)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'transmit' with diseases to avoid sounding like you are blaming a person for spreading it.

Commonly used in news reports and technical discussions. It is considered a 'smart' word.

The concept of 'cultural transmission' in sociology. Radio transmitters used in WWII for secret messages. Transmission (album) by the band Joy Division.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Technology

transmit data
wireless transmission
signal transmitter
bitrate

Medicine

disease transmission
transmit a virus
transmissible infection
pathogen

Mechanics

transmit power
car transmission
gearbox
torque

Social/Cultural

transmit values
cultural transmission
oral tradition
pass on

Physics

transmit light
transmit heat
medium
refraction

Conversation Starters

"How do you think social media has changed the way we transmit news?"

"Do you think it's possible to transmit emotions through a computer screen?"

"What are some traditions that your family has transmitted to you?"

"How fast can your internet service provider transmit data?"

"What is the most effective way to transmit a message to a large group of people?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a value or tradition that you want to transmit to your future children.

Describe a time when you felt someone's mood was transmitted to you.

Explain how a piece of technology you use every day transmits information.

Discuss the challenges of transmitting complex ideas to someone who doesn't speak your language.

Reflect on how the world would change if we couldn't transmit data over long distances.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, no. You 'send' or 'transport' physical objects. 'Transmit' is for signals, data, diseases, or abstract things like ideas.

'Transmit' is the action (verb), and 'transmission' is the process or the thing itself (noun). For example, you transmit data, and the process is called data transmission.

No, it is very common for good or neutral things like music, data, and cultural values. It just depends on what is being sent.

Yes, but it is a bit more creative or metaphorical. For example, 'Her joy was transmitted to the crowd.'

It is spelled with two 't's: transmitting. The same applies to transmitted.

It means a disease is spreading within a group of people in a specific area, and it's not clear where each person got it from.

Technically, yes, if they are spreading a disease, but we usually call the equipment (like a radio tower) a 'transmitter.'

Yes, it is more formal than 'send' or 'pass.' It is commonly used in professional and academic settings.

Yes, in physics, we say that transparent materials like glass transmit light.

It is the system of gears that transmits power from the engine to the wheels so the car can move.