放射

ほうしゃ

radiation, emission

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"放射" (fàngshè) primarily means "to radiate" or "to emit," often referring to the emission of energy, particles, or waves such as radiation from the sun, nuclear materials, or X-rays. It is commonly used in scientific, medical, and environmental contexts.

Common Collocations

  • 放射线 (fàngshèxiàn): radiation or X-rays, frequently used in medical examinations.
  • 放射 (fàngshènéng): radioactivity, used in nuclear physics.
  • 放射治疗 (fàngshè zhìliáo): radiation therapy, a medical treatment.

Usage Notes

When using 放射, the focus is on the act of emitting or radiating something, often invisible energy or particles. It is more formal and technical compared to simpler verbs like (fā, to send out) or (chū, to go out). In medical contexts, 放射线 specifically refers to X-rays or other forms of radiation used for diagnosis or treatment.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse 放射 with 发射 (fāshè), which means "to launch" or "to fire" (e.g., a missile or projectile). 放射 emphasizes continuous or natural emission, while 发射 often implies a directed, forceful action.

Example Sentences

Nuclear power plants emit a certain amount of radiation.

The energy radiated by the sun is the foundation of life on Earth.

The doctor uses X-rays to examine the patient's fracture.