the.com/op ed
An opinion dressed as news, printed opposite the editorials to prove it isn't one.
means A newspaper article that presents a writer's opinion or argument rather than straight news reporting.
from Short for 'opposite the editorial page' — the physical layout spot in American newspapers where these pieces traditionally ran, facing the paper's own editorials. The term dates to the early 20th century, with the format and name solidifying in the 1920s-1970s as papers formalized a page for outside voices distinct from the staff's official opinions.
- name origin
- short for opposite the editorial page
- not written by
- the editorial board itself
- modern twist
- online, pages don't exist, name stuck anyway
- key feature
- strong claims, zero obligation to be balanced