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.
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.