Convey vs Transmit

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Convey

Top 3,000 (common)B2verb

Transmit

Top 2,000 (common)B2verb
Most common: Transmit
 ConveyTransmit
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/kənˈveɪ/","/kənˈveɪz/","/kənˈveɪd/","/kənˈveɪɪŋ/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kənˈveɪ/","/kənˈveɪz/","/kənˈveɪd/","/kənˈveɪɪŋ/"]/🇬🇧 //trænˈsmɪt//🇺🇸 //trænˈsmɪt//
MeaningTo communicate or express something.To send something from one place to another.
ExampleShe used gestures to convey her feelings when words failed.The satellite will transmit data back to Earth.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 3,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB2B2
Part of speechverbverb
Collocationsclearly, perfectly, powerfully, can, could, try to, totransmit signals, transmit data, transmit information, transmit a message, transmit power
Antonymsmiscommunicate, hide, obscurereceive, detain
Common mistakesUsing 'convey' without an object (e.g., saying 'I convey' without specifying what)., Confusing it with 'conveyer' which refers to a type of belt., Mixing up the meaning with 'conveying' as in carrying physical items.Confused with 'transmit' vs 'emit'., Using 'transmit' without an object., Mispronouncing the word.
Usage notesUse 'convey' when you want to express an idea or feeling. It's appropriate in both spoken and written language, but might sound a bit formal in everyday conversation.Commonly used in technical contexts, such as electronics, communication, and medicine. Avoid in casual conversation.

See it in real clips

Transmit

Frequently asked questions: Convey vs Transmit

What's the difference between Convey and Transmit?

Convey: To communicate or express something. Transmit: To send something from one place to another.

Which is more common: Convey and Transmit?

Transmit is the most common in everyday English.

Are Convey and Transmit the same CEFR level?

Convey: B2, Transmit: B2 on the CEFR scale.

What part of speech are Convey and Transmit?

Convey: verb, Transmit: verb.

Can you show an example of each?

Convey: She used gestures to convey her feelings when words failed. Transmit: The satellite will transmit data back to Earth.

Can I use Convey and Transmit interchangeably?

Not always. Convey and Transmit are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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