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propaganda

prop-uh-GAN-duh /ˌprɒpəˈɡændə/

nounC1GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formalneutral

Information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view.

Often implies a systematic effort to persuade, manipulate, or influence public opinion, frequently by appealing to emotions rather than reason, and sometimes involving distortion of truth.

The story behind the word. The word 'propaganda' comes from the Latin verb 'propagare,' meaning 'to propagate, to spread, to extend.' It originally referred to the propagation of the Catholic faith, specifically the 'Congregatio de Propaganda Fide' (Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith), established in 1622. Over time, its meaning broadened and became secularized, referring to any systematic effort to spread information to influence public opinion, often with a negative connotation of bias or manipulation.

Word relationships

disinformation: Disinformation is deliberately false information; propaganda is information (true or false) used to promote a cause.
indoctrination: Indoctrination is teaching a specific doctrine; propaganda is spreading information to influence opinion.

information: Facts provided or learned about something or someone.
truth: The quality or state of being true.

Commonly confused with

advertising: Advertising promotes products/services; propaganda promotes political/ideological causes, often with a manipulative intent.

Word family

propagandist (noun): A person who spreads propaganda.
propagate (verb): To spread and promote (an idea, theory, etc.) widely.

Collocations

political propaganda
war propaganda
spread propaganda
anti-government propaganda

Example sentences

"The government launched a massive propaganda campaign to rally public support for the war effort, utilizing posters, radio broadcasts, and films." Analyzing historical political campaigns.
"In the digital age, citizens must be vigilant against the spread of misinformation and propaganda designed to sow division." Discussing modern media literacy.

Memory hook

Think of 'PROPAGATE' ideas – propaganda is about propagating a specific viewpoint, often biased. PROPAGATE ideas

When not to use

Do not use 'propaganda' for neutral or factual information campaigns. It carries a strong connotation of bias, manipulation, and often a hidden agenda.

Fun facts

The term 'propaganda' was initially neutral, associated with religious missionary work, before acquiring its modern negative connotations in the 20th century, particularly after World War I.