Definition

Noun: A columnist is a journalist who writes regular articles, typically expressing personal opinions or commentary, for publication in a newspaper, magazine, or website. These articles appear in a dedicated section or feature known as a column.

Examples

• The columnist wrote a compelling piece about urban development.
• She is a respected political columnist for a major national newspaper.
• Readers often write letters in response to the columnist's views.

Advanced Usage

• To be a syndicated columnist: A columnist whose work is published simultaneously in multiple newspapers or magazines through a syndication service.
  • Her advice column is so popular that she became a syndicated columnist.
• Guest columnist: A person who writes a column on a one-time or occasional basis, not as the regular author.
  • The newspaper featured a guest columnist to provide an expert opinion on the economic crisis.

Variants and Related Words

• Column (n): The regular section or feature in a publication written by a columnist.
  • I always read the sports column on Sundays.
• Columnistic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of a columnist or column.
  • The essay had a columnistic style, blending fact with personal reflection.

Synonyms

• Commentator: A person who discusses news and events, especially on television or radio or in a publication.
• Pundit: An expert who is frequently called upon to give opinions in public, often through commentary.
• Editorialist: A journalist who writes editorials, which are similar to columns but usually represent the official view of the publication.

Related Phrases

• To write a column: The action performed by a columnist.
  • He writes a column on technology trends every week.
• Opinion column / Op-ed column: Specific types of columns focused on the author's perspective and analysis, often found opposite the editorial page.
  • Her op-ed column sparked a significant public debate.

Noun

1. a journalist who writes editorials