scoop
SKOOP
/skuːp/
An exclusive news story published by one reporter or media outlet before any competitors.
Implies speed, competitiveness, and exclusive access, though speed can sometimes compromise verification.
The story behind the word. Originally referring to a utensil for dipping or digging out liquids and grain, the word entered newspaper jargon in 19th-century America. Journalists metaphorically 'scooped up' the news before rival papers could gather it.
Word relationships
- exclusive: 'Exclusive' is more formal and emphasizes sole ownership of the story, while 'scoop' emphasizes being first.
- beat: 'Beat' as a noun refers to a reporter's assigned topic area; as a verb, it means arriving first.
- rehash: A rehash merely repeats old, previously reported information.
Commonly confused with
- beat: A 'beat' is a assigned reporting domain (e.g., crime beat), whereas a 'scoop' is the breakthrough story itself.
Word family
- scooper (noun): A journalist or publication known for breaking news early.
Collocations
- major scoop
- exclusive scoop
- scoop the competition
- land a scoop
Idioms & expressions
- inside scoop
Example sentences
- "The young reporter managed to secure a major scoop by obtaining the leaked merger documents hours before the press conference." Journalism history context
- "In the fast-paced newsroom, beating rival networks to a scoop often meant the difference between record readership and total irrelevance." Modern digital media
Memory hook
Imagine using an ice cream SCOOP to grab the sweetest news piece before anyone else reaches the tub. Scoop up the news before anyone else gets a taste.
When not to use
Do not use in formal legal documents when referring to official reports or legal filings; use 'exclusive report' instead.
Fun facts
- The 1931 comedy play 'The Scoop' by Agatha Christie and members of the Detection Club popularized the trope of rival reporters racing for exclusive news.
Related words
Explore more words
exclusivity, slant, sensationalism, journalism, syndicated, broadsheet
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