# BBC

/ˌbibiˈsi/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bbc
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. British broadcaster

noun · CEFR A2 · British English

Stands for British Broadcasting Corporation. It is the UK's national public service for television, radio, and news.

For teachers: Abbreviation for British Broadcasting Corporation. The UK's public service broadcaster, funded primarily by a television licence fee.

- I usually check the BBC website to see the latest world news.
- The BBC is renowned globally for its commitment to impartial journalism and high-quality documentary production.

Usage: Usually used with the definite article 'the' when referring to the organisation.

### 2. British-born Chinese

noun · CEFR B2 · British English

A person of Chinese descent who was born and raised in the United Kingdom.

For teachers: A demographic term referring to individuals of Chinese ethnic origin born in the United Kingdom.

- As a BBC, she grew up speaking both English and Cantonese at home.
- The documentary explored the unique cultural identity of the BBC community living in London's East End.

Usage: Can be used as a countable noun or an adjective.

## Examples

- I usually watch the news on the BBC.
- The BBC produces high-quality nature documentaries that are broadcast in dozens of different countries.
- As a public service broadcaster, the BBC is often caught in the crossfire of political debate regarding its impartiality and the long-term viability of its funding model.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.