journalist - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
journalist Word Meanings
- A person who reports news for newspapers or broadcasts.
- Someone who writes or researches articles for various media outlets.
- A person who investigates and presents information on current events.
journalist Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
journalist Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒɜːnəlɪst/
US
/ˈdʒɜrnəlɪst/
journalist Word Etymology
Root: journal = 'daily' (from Latin 'diurnalis'); suffix: -ist = 'one who practices'. Historical Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory Image: Imagine someone reading a daily news 'journal' at a café, jotting down information like a skilled observer, eager to share the day's stories.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean over the desk, adjust the chair, and set the notebook within reach. As a journalist, I push through the clutter of notes, pull out a thread, and shift my focus toward the story. The newsroom hums around me, and I feel the effort in my arms and in my breath as I decide what to include and whom to ask. In the end, the act of reporting becomes a map of what happened and why it matters.
Real Context
A journalist is a professional who gathers, writes, and reports news for newspapers, magazines, radio, television, or online outlets. They investigate events, verify facts, interview sources, and present information in a clear, balanced way for the public. Journalists may specialize in areas like politics, crime, business, or culture, and they often work under tight deadlines while adhering to ethical standards of accuracy and fairness. The term covers reporters who convey the news as it happens, as well as correspondents who investigate longer stories and publish in-depth pieces. In everyday use, a journalist can be a reporter, editor, or writer who communicates current events to audiences.
Usage Reminders
- Use journalist for a person who reports news professionally.
- Do not confuse with journalism (the field) or with a writer.
- Use plural journalists when referring to multiple people.
- Common collocations: political journalist, investigative journalist.
- Be careful with gendered terms like journalistess or journalism student; these are not standard.
- Avoid saying 'a newsman' in modern contexts; many prefer journalist.
Common Misconceptions
- Journalist = writer or author; not all writers are journalists.
- Journalist = only newspaper reporters; many work for TV, radio, or online outlets.
- All journalists are investigative reporters; many do routine news coverage.
- Journalism equals journalism school; you can be a journalist without a degree.
- Journalists always have glamorous jobs; many work long hours under pressure.
Thinking Differences
English learners often focus on the job title and assume journalism is the same as writing. The distinction is that journalist denotes a person who reports news across media, not just a writer or editor.
Learning Tips
- Listen for the word stress on JOURNalist vs jourNAlist? actually stress on JOUR-na-list.
- Note common collocations: investigative journalist, political journalist.
- Practice distinguishing journalist from editor and reporter.
- Use plural form journalists when referring to multiple people.
- Read news articles to see how journalists present facts fairly.
- Check pronunciation: /ˈdʒɜːrnəlɪst/ or /dʒɜːrˈnælɪst/ depending on dialect.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'journalist'?
A.One who writes for newspapers or magazines
B.One who studies the stars
C.One who performs in a circus
D.One who repairs cars
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'journalist' correctly?
A.The journalist fixed my car yesterday.
B.The journalist reported on the latest political developments.
C.The journalist juggled balls at the circus.
D.The journalist studied the constellations.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'journalist'?
A.Mechanic
B.Astronomer
C.Author
D.Farmer
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'journalist'?
A.Student
B.Chef
C.Politician
D.Musician
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving a journalist?
A.The farmer harvested his crops.
B.The musician played a beautiful melody.
C.The journalist interviewed a famous actor.
D.The chef cooked a delicious meal.
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