Sensationalism

/sɛnˈseɪʃənəlɪzəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The use of exciting or shocking stories or language at the expense of accuracy, often to provoke public interest or excitement.

The newspaper's sensationalism drew criticism for distorting the facts to attract readers.

A style of reporting or storytelling that seeks to elicit a strong emotional reaction, often through exaggeration or hyperbolic claims.

His novels are often accused of sensationalism, prioritizing thrilling plots over deep character development.

The practice of emphasizing the sensational aspects of a story rather than its substantive elements.

The documentary fell into sensationalism, focusing on dramatic visuals while neglecting the underlying issues.

Mid 19th century from sensational + -ism.

sensational news

News stories that are exaggerated to provoke a strong reaction.

sensational story

A narrative characterized by exaggerated details intended to shock or thrill.

media sensationalism

The practice by media outlets of emphasizing dramatic events or spectacles.

sensational

Causing great public interest and excitement.

sensate

Perceived through the senses; sensory.

Clickbait

Those articles are just clickbait, all part of the sensationalism game.

Tabloid trash

I don’t read that tabloid trash; it’s all sensationalism.