over the air

USAGE SUMMARY

"over the air" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe transmitting or receiving a signal, broadcast, or other content through the air, rather than through an intermediary medium such as a cable, telephone line, etc. For example, "She watched the latest episode of her favorite show over the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

CBS is the over-the-air broadcaster.

The New York Times

That has left 49 channels for over-the-air television.

The New York Times

"Over-the-air TV is still viable," Mr. Colombo said.

The New York Times

Amp'd even has an over-the-air music download service.

The New York Times - Tech

The over-the-air update is a 92.8MB download.

The Guardian - Tech

Second, over-the-air broadcasts are becoming a nearly obsolete technology.

The New York Times

It will provide a renaissance for over-the-air broadcast TV".

The New York Times

It is an over-the-air broadcast network, not a basic cable channel.

The New York Times

The software fix was the first over-the-air update from Apple.

The New York Times

The regulations date to 1992 and ensured that cable providers would carry over-the-air stations.

The New York Times

Hulu Plus will consist of over-the-air shows like "The Simpsons" and "Brothers and Sisters".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "over the air" to describe software updates or data transfers that occur wirelessly, directly to a device.

Common error

Avoid using "on the air" when you mean "over the air". "On the air" refers to something currently being broadcast, while "over the air" specifies the method of transmission.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "over the air" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, describing how something is transmitted or received. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts like "over-the-air broadcasts" and "over-the-air updates", specifying the transmission method.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "over the air" is a common and correct way to describe wireless transmission or reception, particularly of broadcast signals or data updates. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in news, science, and technology contexts, indicating its relevance across various domains. While generally neutral in register, understanding the distinction between "over the air" and similar phrases like "on the air" is crucial for clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wirelessly

Expresses the same concept of transmission without physical cables, but focuses on the method.

via wireless transmission

More explicit and technical, specifying the means of transmission.

through the airwaves

Emphasizes the medium of transmission, the airwaves.

by radio frequency

Focuses on the specific type of electromagnetic radiation used for transmission.

by broadcast signal

Highlights the signal being transmitted rather than the method.

through wireless channels

Focuses on channels and less on a general broadcast.

in a non-wired fashion

Negatively defined, emphasizing the absence of wires.

using radio waves

Highlights the usage of waves for broad casting purposes.

un кабелled

Stresses the non cable connection

airborne transmission

Focuses on the transmission of things such as viruses or diseases in the air. Usually only applies in medical contexts.

FAQs

What does "over the air" mean in the context of television?

In television, "over the air" refers to receiving broadcast signals via a terrestrial antenna, as opposed to cable or satellite services. This means accessing channels without a paid subscription.

How can I get television channels "over the air"?

To receive television channels "over the air", you need a digital antenna connected to your television. The available channels depend on your location and the strength of the broadcast signals.

What is an "over-the-air" update for a smartphone?

An "over-the-air" (OTA) update for a smartphone is a software update that is downloaded and installed wirelessly, without needing to connect the phone to a computer. Tesla also provides "wirelessly" updated features.

Is "over the air" the same as streaming?

No, "over the air" is not the same as streaming. "Over the air" refers to receiving broadcast signals via antenna. Streaming involves receiving content over the internet, which requires a data connection.