editorial
ed-ih-TOR-ee-uhl
/ˌɛdɪˈtɔːriəl/
A newspaper or magazine article expressing the opinion of the editor or publisher.
An editorial is explicitly opinion-based, distinct from news reporting, and represents the official stance of the publication. It is subjective by nature.
The story behind the word. The word 'editorial' comes from 'editor,' which itself is derived from the Latin 'edere,' meaning 'to bring forth' or 'to publish.' An editor is someone who 'brings forth' or prepares content for publication. By the mid-19th century, 'editorial' came to specifically refer to an article written by the editor, expressing the official opinion of the publication, thus distinguishing it from factual news reporting.
Word relationships
- opinion piece: A written article expressing the opinion of the author, not necessarily the official stance of the publication.
- commentary: An expression of opinions or an explanation about an event or situation.
- op-ed: A page of a newspaper opposite the editorial page, devoted to opinion pieces by various writers.
- news report: A factual account of recent events.
- objective article: An article based on facts, not personal feelings or opinions.
Commonly confused with
- news article: An editorial expresses opinion; a news article reports facts.
Word family
- editor (noun): A person who is in charge of a newspaper or magazine, or part of one, and who decides what should be included.
- edit (verb): To prepare (written material) for publication by correcting, condensing, or otherwise modifying it.
Collocations
- lead editorial
- editorial board
- editorial opinion
- editorial policy
Example sentences
- "The newspaper's editorial strongly condemned the proposed policy changes, arguing they would harm the local economy." Reading a newspaper.
- "While the news section presented facts, the editorial page offered a subjective interpretation of events." Discussing media content.
Memory hook
An 'EDITORIAL' is the 'EDITOR'S ORAL' opinion, published for all to read. Editor's opinion
When not to use
Do not confuse an 'editorial' with a news report; news reports aim for objectivity, while editorials are designed to express opinion.
Fun facts
- Many newspapers have an 'editorial board' which collectively decides the stance taken in their editorials.
- The 'op-ed' page (opposite the editorial page) provides a platform for guest writers to express their opinions, distinct from the publication's official editorial.
Related words
Explore more words
editorialize, op-ed, edit, journalism, columnist, commentary
Also appears in
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