student asking question

What does "transmit" mean? Also, what makes it different from "transfer?"

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

You're right in thinking that they seem similar in meaning. However, the difference is that to "transmit" is to send or convey something from one person, place, or thing to another, while to "transfer" is to move or pass from one place, person, or thing to another. Thus, things like electric signals are transmitted, while things like packages are transferred. Ex: This device transmits electric signals to my brain. Ex: My package is being transferred from the plane to the delivery truck.

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