To provide a photoconductive element for generating or detecting a terahertz wave that can adjust the propagation state, especially the frequency characteristics, of the terahertz wave.

The photoconductive element for generating or detecting a terahertz wave includees: a carrier generation layer 2801; an electrode 2802; antennas 2804; and two adjusting stubs 2806 for adjusting a propagation state of the terahertz wave generated or detected by the carrier. The two adjusting stubs 2806 are conductors having length of wavelength λ or less of the terahertz wave generated by the carrier. The two adjusting stubs 2806 are connected to an extended line in the longitudinal direction of the electrode 2802. An end 2807 of the adjusting stub is placed within a range of the wavelength λ or less from joint 2808 between the antenna 2804 and the electrode 2802.

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