The Purpose of CNN’s Use of “Breaking News”

Network news organizations, including CNN, commonly use the term “breaking news” to denote the arrival of significant and newsworthy information. This phrase, while not exclusive to CNN, is frequently employed to catch the attention of viewers and convey the immediate relevance and timeliness of the news story.

The Widespread Use of "Breaking News"

It is important to note that the practice of labeling stories as “breaking news” is a widespread occurrence across various news agencies, not just a CNN-specific phenomenon. Many news organizations use similar phrases like “this just in,” “extra,” or “special bulletin” to emphasize the importance and current status of a news item. These terms are used to indicate either the introduction of new, crucial facts regarding an ongoing story or the occurrence of a noteworthy event that has just taken place.

Examples of "Breaking News" Usage

For instance, a plane crash in Chicago that occurred a few minutes ago would unequivocally qualify as “breaking news.” Similarly, if the crash happened three days ago but was subsequently discovered that the pilot was under the influence of alcohol, this information would also be considered “breaking news.” Such events are typically highlighted to inform the public about the latest developments and maintain their interest.

However, the frequent misuse and overuse of the term “breaking news” can lead to its diminishing effectiveness. In fact, research has shown that audiences are increasingly seeking the latest information to navigate through today’s fast-paced news landscape. Consequently, news stations often rely on this term as a legitimate marketing tool to attract and retain viewers.

The Case of NBC Nightly News

One notable example is NBC Nightly News, which, according to expert evaluations, has become notorious for its excessive use of the term “breaking news.” Every story in the first eight minutes of its broadcast nightly routinely features a graphic display of “BREAKING NEWS” with anchor Lester Holt updating viewers on events that have already occurred hours earlier. This practice has led to criticism and the perception that the term is being misused to inflate the importance of routine or less significant stories.

Conclusion and Media Critique

In conclusion, while the term “breaking news” is a valid indicator of immediate and significant news events, its overuse by various news networks can diminish its effectiveness. This overuse, seen in network news broadcasts like NBC Nightly News, can give rise to skepticism among viewers and highlight the broader issue of media bias and sensationalism. It is crucial for news organizations to maintain a balance between highlighting the urgency of news and avoiding the temptation to hyped-up storytelling for ratings.

Related Keywords

Tagged for SEO

#CNN #BreakingNews #NewsAgencies #MarketingTool #MediaBias