Newspaper Expressions in English

Newspaper Expressions in English

Newspaper expressions in English

Although we no longer buy newspapers as frequently as we did before the Internet era, we still read the news — only now we do it on our phones, laptops, and tablets. Whether it’s breaking news, a celebrity scandal, or an inspiring human-interest piece, newspapers (and online news sites) are full of expressions that have become part of everyday English. Newspaper expressions in English

Here are some useful newspaper-related expressions you should know — they often appear in conversations, idioms, and even exam tasks like FCE or CAE writing and speaking.

Cover Story

Meaning: the main or most important article in a newspaper or magazine, usually featured on the front page with a large headline and photo.

• The cover story of this week’s magazine is about a famous footballer’s new baby.
• Environmental issues often make the cover story when world leaders meet to discuss climate change.

The Latest News

Meaning: the most recent or up-to-date news.

• Have you heard the latest news about the aeroplane crash?
• Let’s check the latest news to see whether the strike has ended.

Tabloid Newspapers

Meaning: newspapers that focus on sensational stories, gossip, scandals, or crime — often less serious than broadsheets.

• The appearance of a pop star with his new girlfriend provoked tabloid gossip.
• Some people prefer tabloids because they’re entertaining, while others criticise them for being unreliable.

A Story Breaks

Meaning: when an important piece of news becomes public for the first time. Newspaper expressions in English

• The millionaire was abroad when the story about his wife’s suicide broke.
• The story broke late at night, and by morning, every news channel was covering it.

Hit / Make the Headlines

Meaning: to appear on the front pages of many newspapers; to become widely discussed.

• The news about the earthquake hit the headlines.
• When the minister resigned, the scandal made the headlines worldwide.

Hot off the Press

Meaning: newly printed or published; just released.

• This morning, hot off the press, the newspaper reported a meeting between the two presidents.
• The journalist proudly showed her article, hot off the press.

A General Outcry

Meaning: strong public disagreement or protest about something.

• Last night’s terrorist attack raised a general outcry.
• There was a general outcry when the government announced cuts in education funding.

Hold the Front Page!

Meaning: an ironic or humorous phrase used when pretending something ordinary is big news.

• Madonna adopted another baby — hold the front page! Newspaper expressions in English
• “You’re making tea again? Hold the front page!” she joked.

Run a Story

Meaning: to publish or print an article in a newspaper or magazine.

• The Sun ran a story about the Royal wedding.
• The local paper refused to run a story without checking the facts.

Flick Through the Newspaper

Meaning: to look quickly through the pages without reading everything carefully.

• He flicked through the newspaper while waiting for the train.
• I only had five minutes, so I flicked through to see the main headlines.

Other Useful Expressions

Breaking news – fresh news that has just happened.

We interrupt this programme to bring you breaking news.

Fake news – false or misleading information presented as real news.

Be cautious about what you share online; it may be fake news.

Front page news – very important news that everyone is talking about.

The royal engagement became front page news all over the world. Newspaper expressions in English

Source close to the journalist – an anonymous person who provides information.

A source close to the journalist revealed that the investigation was still ongoing.

Final Thoughts

And finally — don’t believe everything you read in the papers! Many newspapers and magazines today rely on sensationalism — exaggerating stories to attract readers and increase sales.

 As English learners, understanding these expressions helps you not only talk about the news but also recognise the language of media and headlines.

So next time a story breaks, you’ll be able to discuss it like a native speaker — whether it’s hot off the press or front page news! 🗞

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