Sensationally Meaning: Definition and Examples

Media and Communication

• In journalism, sensational news often refers to stories that are exaggerated to attract more attention, sometimes labeled as 'clickbait.'
• Sensationalism in media can lead to controversies, as it often prioritizes entertainment over factual accuracy.
• Numerous famous reality shows and tabloid publications thrive on sensationalism to keep viewers engaged.

Psychology

• Human brains are wired to respond more strongly to sensational events or stories, as they tend to evoke heightened emotional reactions.
• Sensationally presented information can lead to cognitive biases, such as the 'availability heuristic,' where people judge events as more likely based on how memorable they are.
• Research shows that people are more likely to remember and share sensational stories than those that are more mundane.

Pop Culture

• Many movies and TV shows market themselves as ‘sensational’ to attract audiences, often promising thrilling plots and overwhelming visuals.
• Sensational fashion trends can capture public interest quickly, like colorful hairstyles or extravagant outfits dominating the red carpet.
• In music, sensational performances can create buzz, leading to viral moments and widespread popularity.

Literature

• Sensationalism has been a technique used in gothic literature, where dramatic events and intense emotions drive the narrative.
• Some authors, like Edgar Allan Poe, used sensational elements to evoke fear and suspense, captivating readers throughout the years.
• In contemporary literature, 'sensational' themes often explore darker or more intense subjects that challenge societal norms.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'sensationally' comes from 'sensation,' which originates from the Latin word 'sensio,' meaning 'feeling or perception.'
• It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century as people began to discuss emotions and public reactions.
• The suffix '-ly' indicates the word describes how something is done, making 'sensationally' an adverb.

The adverb 'sensationally' is derived from the adjective 'sensational,' which first entered the English language in the mid-19th century. The root of 'sensational' can be traced back to the noun 'sensation,' originating from the Latin word 'sensatio,' meaning 'a feeling or perception.' The suffix '-al' is added to form 'sensational' and subsequently the adverbial form '-ly' to describe the manner of doing something. The usage of 'sensationally' has evolved to often describe actions or events that are designed to provoke strong reactions or heightened emotions, especially in media and entertainment contexts.

Ranking #36,284, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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