通信

つうしん

correspondence, communications

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"通信" (つうしん) primarily refers to communication or correspondence, especially involving electronic or technical means. It is commonly used in contexts related to telecommunications, internet communication, and data transmission.

Common Contexts

You will often see "通信" in technical or business settings, such as "通信機器" (communication devices) or "無線通信" (wireless communication). It can also refer to the act of exchanging messages or information, like in "通信する" (to communicate).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 通信する: to communicate or correspond
  • 通信機器: communication equipment/devices
  • 無線通信: wireless communication
  • 通信速度: communication speed

Register and Nuance

"通信" is a neutral, formal word often used in technical, business, or official contexts. It is less common in casual conversation where simpler words like "連絡" (contact) might be preferred.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "通信" with "連絡". While both relate to communication, "通信" emphasizes the technical or systematic exchange of information, whereas "連絡" is more about personal contact or notification. Use "通信" when referring to communication technology or data exchange.

Example Sentences

いんたーねっとをつかってせかいじゅうとつうしんする。

Communicate with people around the world using the internet.

このかいしゃはつうしんききをせいぞうしています。

This company manufactures communication devices.

きんきゅうじにはむせんつうしんがじゅうようです。

Wireless communication is important in emergencies.