ENGLISH
REFERENCE

PBS

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate pbs

n. Stands for Public Broadcasting Service. A non-profit American television network that shows educational and cultural programs. It is famous for news, documentaries, and children's shows like Sesame Street.

n. Abbreviation for Public Broadcasting Service. A non-profit American public broadcaster and television program distributor. It operates as a membership organization that provides content to local public television stations.


SIMPLE

I watched a great documentary on PBS last night.

CONTEXTUAL

Many American children grow up watching educational programming on PBS because it is free and accessible without a cable subscription.

COMPLEX

While commercial networks rely heavily on advertising revenue, PBS maintains its programming through a combination of government funding, private foundations, and individual viewer donations.

Synonyms
Usage

Typically used as a proper noun without an article, though 'the PBS' may appear when referring to the organization specifically.

© 2026 English Reference