definition terms news writing

Angle

The particular approach or perspective taken in writing a news story.

Attribution

The act of identifying the source of a piece of information.

Background Information

Information provided to enhance understanding but not for direct quoting or attribution.

Banner

A headline in large letters running across the entire width of the first page.

Body

The main part of the article that provides details and supporting information.

Buried Lead

A common mistake in news writing where crucial information is buried deeper within the text rather than presented prominently.

Byline

The line in a newspaper or magazine naming the writer of an article.

Caption

A brief explanation or description of an accompanying photograph or illustration.

Columnist

A person who writes a regular column giving a personal opinion.

Copy Desk

The section within a newsroom where editors review, edit and prepare written content for publication.

Copy Editor

A professional who edits written content for accuracy, grammar, style and coherence.

Copyright

A legal right granted to the creator of original works, protecting their use and distribution.

Correspondent

A journalist who reports news from a particular location, often distant from the main newsroom.

Credit Line

A note or citation that accompanies published material, giving proper acknowledgment to the creator.

Dateline

The line at the beginning of a news article that includes the date and place of writing.

Dummy

A diagram or layout of a newspaper page showing the placement of stories, headlines, and advertisements.

Edition

A particular version or issue of a publication, especially a newspaper or magazine.

Editor

An individual responsible for the content and quality of a publication.

Embargo

A request by a source that the information provided not be published until a certain date.

Fact-checking

The process of verifying information before publication to ensure accuracy.

Filler

Short articles or items used to fill space in a publication.

Flag

The name of a newspaper or magazine as it appears on the front page or cover.

Fourth Estate

A term referring to the press and news media as a societal or political force.

Gutter

The margin between facing pages where the fold lies.

Hard News

News stories that report on significant events, often involving politics and public matters.

Headline

The title of a news article, designed to grab attention.

Lead (Lede)

The opening sentence or paragraph of a news story, summarizing the most important aspects.

Masthead

A section of a newspaper or magazine listing its name, ownership, and management.

Off the Record

Information provided to a journalist that cannot be published or attributed to the source.

On the Record

Information provided to a journalist that can be published and attributed to the source.

Press

Machine that prints the newspaper.

Press Release

An official statement issued to media giving information on a particular matter.

Quote

A verbatim repetition of someone's words, usually enclosed in quotation marks.

Scoop

An exclusive piece of news reported before any other media outlet.

Soft News

News stories more about entertainment or human interest, less time-sensitive.

Source

The origin of the information used in the article.

Stringer

A freelance journalist or photographer who contributes reports on a piece-by-piece basis.

Tabloid

A type of newspaper focusing on sensational news stories and entertainment.

Wire Service

A news agency supplying syndicated news to media outlets.

Breaking News

Immediate coverage of an event that is currently unfolding.

Feature

An in-depth article focusing on a particular topic or person.

Editorial

An opinion piece written expressing viewpoints on various issues.

Op-Ed (Opposite Editorial)

An opinion piece by an author not affiliated with the editorial board.

Investigative Reporting

In-depth reporting that uncovers new information.

Inverted Pyramid

A structure where the most important information is presented first.

Nut Graph (Nut Graf)

A paragraph summarizing the essence of a story, often placed after the lead.

Background

Information provided to give context to a story.

Sidebar

A short article accompanying a main story, providing additional information.

Slant

The specific point of view or bias reflected in a news article.

B-Roll

Supplemental footage used to enhance storytelling in video journalism.

Standup

A segment where a reporter appears on camera to present information.

Voiceover (VO)

A narration provided by a reporter while video footage is shown.