Columnist: meaning, definitions and examples
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columnist
[ˈkɒləm nɪst ]
Definitions
newspaper
A person who writes for a newspaper or magazine, especially on a regular basis, providing commentary and analysis on current events, trends, or other topics.
Synonyms
commentator, journalist, reporter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| columnist |
A person who regularly writes articles for a newspaper or magazine, often expressing opinions or providing commentary on specific subjects.
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| journalist |
A person who writes news stories or articles for newspapers, magazines, or news websites, or prepares news to be broadcast. This term is more general and encompasses various forms of news reporting.
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| commentator |
Someone who provides opinions or commentary, particularly in contexts like sports, news, or political events, often on television or radio.
|
| reporter |
A journalist specifically focused on gathering, reporting, and writing news stories, often directly from the location of events. They provide factual accounts rather than opinions.
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Examples of usage
- He is a well-known columnist for The New York Times.
- The columnist expressed his opinion on the recent political developments.
- She has been working as a columnist for over a decade.
online
A person who writes regular articles or blog posts for a website, sharing their opinions, insights, or expertise on various subjects.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| columnist |
A columnist writes regular articles for a newspaper or magazine. They often explore specific topics like politics, lifestyle, or sports. This term is frequently used for professional writers who are well-known for their regular contributions.
|
| blogger |
A blogger creates and publishes content on a blog, often focusing on personal experiences, reviews, or niche topics. Blogging can be a hobby or a professional activity, and it's usually done online.
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| contributor |
A contributor provides content for a publication or platform, but they might not be as regular as a columnist. Contributors often write articles, essays, or reports on an occasional or freelance basis.
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| author |
An author is someone who writes books, articles, or other written works. This term is more general and can be used for anyone who creates original written content, whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or academic.
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Examples of usage
- The online columnist discussed the latest technology trends.
- She gained popularity as an online columnist for her fashion advice.
- The website features columns by various online columnists.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'columnist' comes from 'column', which in this context means a vertical section of a page where text is presented.
- It combines 'column' with the suffix '-ist', indicating someone who does something, like an artist or scientist.
- The term gained popularity in the early 20th century as newspapers began to feature regular opinion pieces.
Literature
- Columnists often blend opinion writing with storytelling, making their pieces not only informative but engaging.
- Prominent columnists like George Will and Maureen Dowd have significantly influenced public opinion and political discourse through their writings.
- Many columnists are also authors, using their columns as a platform to launch books and broader discussions.
Media
- In the digital age, many columnists have transitioned to blogs or online platforms, reaching global audiences far beyond traditional print.
- Columnists often engage with their readers through comment sections or social media, fostering a two-way dialogue.
- With the rise of citizen journalism, ordinary people can now contribute to column-like formats, blurring the lines between professional and amateur writers.
Cultural Impact
- Columnists can shape cultural narratives, influencing topics like social justice, politics, and lifestyles.
- Their unique viewpoints can challenge societal norms, sparking debates that lead to meaningful change.
- In some cultures, columnists play an essential role in raising awareness about local issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Psychology
- Readers often develop a sense of connection to columnists, feeling as if they know them personally through their writing style.
- The emotional tone of a column can influence how readers perceive the topic—whether it's humorous, serious, or critical.
- Research shows that regular readers of opinion columns are more likely to develop strong opinions on the subjects discussed.
Translations
Translations of the word "columnist" in other languages:
🇵🇹 colunista
🇮🇳 स्तंभकार
🇩🇪 Kolumnist
🇮🇩 kolumnis
🇺🇦 колумніст
🇵🇱 felietonista
🇯🇵 コラムニスト
🇫🇷 chroniqueur
🇪🇸 columnista
🇹🇷 köşe yazarı
🇰🇷 칼럼니스트
🇸🇦 كاتب عمود
🇨🇿 sloupkař
🇸🇰 stĺpkar
🇨🇳 专栏作家
🇸🇮 kolumnist
🇮🇸 dálkahöfundur
🇰🇿 колумнист
🇬🇪 კოლუმნისტი
🇦🇿 kolumnist
🇲🇽 columnista