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Sensationalize: meaning, definitions and examples

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sensationalize

 

[ sɛnˈseɪʃənəlaɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

media exaggeration

To sensationalize means to present information in a way that provokes public interest and excitement, often by exaggerating details or emphasizing certain aspects. This practice is common in journalism and media, aiming to attract a larger audience through dramatic presentations.

Synonyms

dramatize, exaggerate, overstate

Examples of usage

  • The newspaper sensationalized the story to attract more readers.
  • They tend to sensationalize crime reports for ratings.
  • Some documentaries sensationalize historical events to capture viewer attention.

Word origin

The term 'sensationalize' originated in the late 19th century, deriving from the word 'sensation.' The root 'sensation' comes from the Latin 'sensatio,' meaning 'a feeling or perception,' which stems from 'sensare,' meaning 'to feel.' The prefix 'sens-' references the senses, while the suffix '-alize' indicates the action of making or transforming into. Initially used in the context of sensationalism in journalism, the term has evolved to describe any communication that seeks to generate a strong emotional response through exaggeration or dramatization. The rise of tabloid journalism and the sensational coverage of events in the mass media during the early 20th century further popularized the term, leading to its widespread use in modern discussions about media practices.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,687, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.