Sensationalize

usgb/senˈseɪʃənəlaɪz/
verb

To give extra attention to something to make it seem more exciting or shocking.

The media is infamous for sensationalizing celebrity scandals.
Visual representation of "sensationalize" - To give extra attention to something to make it seem more exciting or shocking

Often appears as...

  • sensationalize the news
  • sensationalize a story
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "sensationalize"
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Media Use

Often used to describe how news or events are portrayed with undue excitement.

Illustration for Media Use
The newspaper sensationalized the minor incident into a major crisis.
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Negative Connotation

Implies a lack of truthfulness or distortion of facts.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Politicians sometimes sensationalize issues to win votes.
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Emotional Impact

Aims to provoke a strong emotional response from the audience.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The documentary sensationalized the plight of the animals.
Visual representation of the word "Sensationalize"

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