Definition
A tabloid is a type of newspaper characterized by its smaller page size and its content format, focusing on sensational news stories. The approximate dimensions of a tabloid are 14 inches deep by 10 to 12 inches wide, and it generally has five or six columns, each roughly 2 inches wide. Unlike standard newspapers, tabloids are sold flat and have an appearance more similar to an unbound magazine.
Key Characteristics
- Size: Smaller than standard newspapers, dimensions approximately 14" x 10"-12".
- Content: Often features news in a compressed or condensed form.
- Format: Includes numerous photographs and often focuses on sensational or celebrity-related news.
- Presentation: Sold in a flat layout rather than folded.
Examples
- The Sun: A British tabloid known for its sensational headlines and coverage of celebrity gossip.
- New York Post: An American tabloid that mixes sensational news with political coverage.
- Daily Mail: A UK tabloid that covers everything from hard news to celebrity scandals and gossip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between a tabloid and a broadsheet?
A: The main difference lies in size and content. While tabloids are smaller and often focus on sensational news, broadsheets have larger pages and typically present more serious journalism.
Q: Why are tabloids considered less credible than other newspapers?
A: This perception generally comes from their focus on sensational headlines and celebrity gossip, rather than in-depth investigative journalism.
Q: Are all tabloids focused on sensationalism and entertainment?
A: No, not all tabloids focus exclusively on sensationalism; some may cover a broad range of topics including politics, economics, and sports, although they generally employ a more condensed format.
Q: How are tabloids distributed?
A: Similar to other newspapers, tabloids are sold at newsstands and can also be delivered directly to subscribers.
- Broadsheet: A larger-format newspaper, typically around 22 inches deep and 15 inches wide, focusing on serious journalism.
- Magazine: A periodical publication containing articles and illustrations, covering various subjects or specific industries.
- Sensationalism: The use of exciting or shocking stories at the expense of accuracy to provoke public interest.
References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Tabloid Journalism” by Martin Conboy
- “Yellow Journalism: Puncturing the Myths, Defining the Legacies” by W. Joseph Campbell
- “Scandal Work: James Joyce, the New Journalism, and the Home Rule Newspaper Wars” by Margot Gayle Backus
Fundamentals of Tabloid: Communications Basics Quiz
### What is the typical width of a column in a tabloid newspaper?
- [ ] 1 inch
- [x] 2 inches
- [ ] 3 inches
- [ ] 4 inches
> **Explanation:** The columns in a tabloid are typically 2 inches wide, with the newspaper generally having five or six columns.
### How is a tabloid newspaper usually sold?
- [ ] Folded in half
- [ ] In rolls
- [x] Flat
- [ ] Bound as a book
> **Explanation:** A tabloid is sold flat and has an appearance similar to an unbound magazine, which differentiates it from standard newspapers that are often folded.
### Which of the following is a key content feature of a tabloid?
- [ ] Long, detailed articles
- [x] Numerous photographs
- [ ] Minimal graphical content
- [ ] Scientific abstracts
> **Explanation:** A key characteristic of a tabloid is the inclusion of numerous photographs, catering to its focus on sensational news and visual appeal.
### What size comparison distinguishes a tabloid newspaper?
- [ ] Larger than a standard newspaper
- [ ] Meticulously identical in size to standard newspapers
- [x] Smaller than a standard newspaper
- [ ] Larger than a broadsheet
> **Explanation:** A tabloid is smaller in size compared to a standard newspaper.
### Which of these newspapers is an example of a tabloid?
- [ ] The New York Times
- [ ] The Guardian
- [x] The Sun
- [ ] The Washington Post
> **Explanation:** The Sun is an example of a tabloid newspaper known for its sensational headlines and celebrity gossip.
### What type of content is most associated with tabloids?
- [ ] Academic Articles
- [x] Sensational news stories
- [ ] Peer-reviewed research
- [ ] Government reports
> **Explanation:** Tabloids are most commonly associated with sensational news stories and celebrity gossip.
### How are broadsheet newspapers different from tabloids?
- [x] They are larger and typically focus on serious journalism.
- [ ] They are the same size but vary in content.
- [ ] They focus more on photographs.
- [ ] They only publish financial news.
> **Explanation:** Broadsheet newspapers are larger and generally focus on more serious journalism compared to tabloids.
### What audience do tabloids usually target?
- [ ] Academics and professionals
- [x] General public and readers interested in sensational news
- [ ] Exclusive business readers
- [ ] Politicians and lawmakers
> **Explanation:** Tabloids usually target the general public, particularly those interested in sensational news and celebrity gossip.
### Name a popular tabloid from the United States.
- [x] New York Post
- [ ] The Wall Street Journal
- [ ] Los Angeles Times
- [ ] USA Today
> **Explanation:** The New York Post is a popular tabloid newspaper in the United States.
### What is one common critique of tabloid newspapers?
- [ ] They are too scientific.
- [ ] They lack photographs.
- [x] They focus too much on sensationalism.
- [ ] They are too large in size.
> **Explanation:** A common critique of tabloid newspapers is their focus on sensationalism at the expense of in-depth, factual reporting.
Thank you for exploring the world of tabloid newspapers and tackling our knowledge quiz. Keep up the great work in enhancing your media literacy!
