scandalmongering

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Word: Scandalmongering

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Scandalmongering refers to the act of spreading or promoting scandalous information or gossip, often with the intention of causing trouble or creating excitement. It is typically associated with sensational journalism, where the focus is on shocking stories rather than on factual reporting.

Explanation:

When someone engages in scandalmongering, they are often sharing rumors or stories that could harm someone's reputation. This kind of behavior is common in tabloids (newspapers that focus on sensational news), where they might exaggerate or twist facts to attract readers.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: You can use "scandalmongering" when talking about people who gossip or when discussing media that spreads sensational stories.
• How to use: It is often used to describe actions or behaviors, so you might say, "The tabloids are known for their scandalmongering."

Example Sentence:

• "The tabloids thrive on scandalmongering, creating headlines that grab attention but often lack truth."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, you might discuss the impact of scandalmongering on society or individuals, such as: - "The scandals created by the media's scandalmongering can lead to real-life consequences for those involved."

Word Variants:

• Scandalmonger (noun): A person who spreads scandals or gossip.

  • Example: "He is known as a scandalmonger, always sharing the latest gossip about celebrities."

• Scandalous (adjective): Describes something that is shocking or morally wrong.

  • Example: "The scandalous article revealed private details about her life."

Different Meanings:

• While "scandalmongering" primarily refers to gossip and sensationalism, it can also imply a broader context of creating controversy for the sake of attention.

Synonyms:

• Gossipmongering
• Rumor-mongering
• Sensationalism
• Yellow journalism

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Stir the pot": To create trouble or provoke a reaction, often by spreading gossip.

  • Example: "She loves to stir the pot at work by sharing rumors about her colleagues."

• "Bite the bullet": To face a difficult situation or accept something unpleasant, often used when dealing with the fallout of scandal.

  • Example: "After the scandal broke, she had to bite the bullet and face the media."

Summary:

In summary, scandalmongering is about spreading sensational and often harmful gossip, typically found in tabloids or sensational media.

Academic

Adjective

1. typical of tabloids
   • sensational journalistic reportage of the scandal
   • yellow press

Noun

1. spreading malicious gossip

Synonyms

• sensationalistic
• yellow