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Sensationalize - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To sensationalize means to present information in an exaggerated or dramatic way to provoke strong emotions or attract attention, often at the expense of accuracy or fairness.

sensationalize

/sɛnˈseɪʃənəˌlaɪz/ /sɛnˈseɪʃənəˌlaɪz/

Definition:

To present information in an exaggerated or lurid manner to provoke public interest.

Synonyms:

exaggerate, dramatize, overhype, embellish

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

understate, downplay

Common Collocations:

sensationalize news, sensationalize events, sensationalize stories

Derivatives:

sensationalization, sensationalizing

Usage Tips:

Avoid overusing the word; it often carries a negative connotation of distorting facts for attention.

Common Phrases:

"sensationalize the truth, " "sensationalize for clicks, " "sensationalize headlines"

Etymology:

Derived from "sensation," from Latin *sensatio*, meaning "perception" or "feeling."

Examples:

  • 1. The media tends to sensationalize minor incidents to attract viewers.
  • 2. Some journalists sensationalize tragedies to boost ratings unfairly.
  • 3. Don’t sensationalize the story; stick to the facts instead.
  • 4. Politicians accused the press of trying to sensationalize the scandal unnecessarily.

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