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free-to-air

British  

noun

  1. Compare pay-per-view pay television

    1. a system of television for which viewers do not have to subscribe or pay

    2. ( as modifier )

      free-to-air networks

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

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With the bout also being shown on free-to-air TV across Ireland, Taylor's farewell - which will include music from one of the nation's biggest pop groups, Westlife - has become a national celebration.

From BBC Sep. 4, 2026

Those include CNN International, Cartoon Network and local free-to-air broadcaster Channel 5.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 6, 2026

It operates a robust TV production studio and free-to-air channels that attract nearly 32% of the nation’s ad-supported viewing.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 6, 2026

The combined business will deliver more sport free-to-air, while ITV News and Sky News "will remain distinct editorial voices", the statement said.

From Barron's Jul. 6, 2026

The subscription channel takes over from the BBC which had been the principal partner since 1954 and provided free-to-air coverage for 18 games in a row.

From BBC Dec. 19, 2025

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