Definition

Noun: 1. A newspaper with pages that are half the size of a standard newspaper: This refers to the physical format of the publication, which is smaller and more compact. 2. Sensationalist journalism: This refers to the style of reporting often associated with such newspapers, characterized by exaggerated, emotional, or scandalous stories, prominent photographs, and bold headlines.

Usage

The word "tabloid" is used to describe both a physical newspaper format and a particular style of journalism. It often carries a negative connotation, implying that the content is less serious or credible than that of a broadsheet newspaper.

Examples

• Referring to the format:
  • She prefers reading a tabloid on the train because it's easier to handle than a large newspaper.
  • The story was published in both a broadsheet and a tabloid.
• Referring to the journalistic style:
  • The celebrity scandal was covered in typical tabloid fashion, with lurid headlines and paparazzi photos.
  • That's just tabloid gossip; you shouldn't believe everything you read.

Advanced Usage

• "Tabloidization" (noun): The process by which mainstream media adopts the sensationalist techniques typical of tabloids.
  • Critics argue that the tabloidization of news has eroded public trust in journalism.
• "Tabloidy" (adjective, informal): Resembling or characteristic of a tabloid.
  • The article felt a bit tabloidy, focusing more on drama than facts.

Variants and Related Words

• Broadsheet (noun): A newspaper with a large format, traditionally associated with more serious, in-depth journalism. (Antonym in terms of format and perceived style).
• Tabloid journalism (noun phrase): Journalism that emphasizes sensational crime stories, gossip columns about celebrities, and astrology.

Synonyms

• Rag (noun, informal and derogatory): A disrespectful term for a newspaper, especially a tabloid.
  • I wouldn't waste my money on that rag.
• Sensationalist press (noun phrase): Media outlets that use sensationalism.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Tabloid headline: A headline that is designed to shock, excite, or attract attention, often through exaggeration.
  • The story wasn't as dramatic as the tabloid headline made it seem.
• Tabloid fodder: Events or people considered ideal material for sensationalist tabloid stories.
  • The actor's messy divorce became tabloid fodder for months.

Noun

1. newspaper with half-size pages
2. sensationalist journalism