broadsheet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal, journalistic, academic.
Quick answer
What does “broadsheet” mean?
A large-format newspaper, traditionally regarded as more serious and containing in-depth reporting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large-format newspaper, traditionally regarded as more serious and containing in-depth reporting.
1) A large, single sheet of paper printed on one side, used for announcements or posters. 2) By extension, a term for serious, high-quality journalism, regardless of physical format.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used in both varieties, but the UK has a stronger, more traditional distinction between broadsheet and tabloid newspapers in public discourse. In the US, the term 'broadsheet' is used, but 'quality paper' or 'newspaper of record' (e.g., The New York Times) are also common.
Connotations
In both, it connotes seriousness, depth, and authority. The UK usage often carries stronger class and educational connotations.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in UK English due to the historical prominence of the physical format distinction in the national press.
Grammar
How to Use “broadsheet” in a Sentence
[determiner] + broadsheet + (newspaper)read/follow a broadsheetpublished in the broadsheetsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “broadsheet” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His broadsheet background gave him a different perspective.
- It was a broadsheet-style report on the local council.
American English
- She has a broadsheet approach to her blog's investigative pieces.
- The magazine published a broadsheet-quality feature.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the sector of the print media market, as in 'broadsheet advertising revenues'.
Academic
Used in media studies to analyse press formats, journalistic ethics, and readership demographics.
Everyday
Used to describe the type of newspaper someone reads, e.g., 'I prefer a broadsheet for the political analysis.'
Technical
In printing, refers to a specific paper size and printing method for large sheets.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “broadsheet”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “broadsheet”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “broadsheet”
- Using 'broadsheet' to mean any newspaper. (It's a specific type).
- Misspelling as 'broadshit'.
- Pronouncing the 'oa' as in 'broadcast' (/brɔːd/) can be tricky.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While The Guardian was historically a broadsheet, it switched to a smaller 'Berliner' and then tabloid format. However, it is still described as a 'broadsheet' in style due to its serious journalistic approach.
The main differences are physical size (broadsheet is larger) and journalistic style. Broadsheets focus on in-depth reporting, analysis, and formal language, while tabloids focus on sensational stories, celebrities, and concise, emotional language.
Yes, colloquially. The term is often used to describe the quality and style of journalism (e.g., 'broadsheet website') even though there is no physical paper size online.
No. While they prioritise factual reporting, broadsheets have distinct editorial lines and political leanings (e.g., left-leaning, right-leaning, centrist). Their partisanship is usually expressed through editorials and columnist selection rather than distorted news reporting.
A large-format newspaper, traditionally regarded as more serious and containing in-depth reporting.
Broadsheet is usually formal, journalistic, academic. in register.
Broadsheet: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbrɔːd.ʃiːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbrɑːd.ʃiːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “broadsheet of record”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: a BROAD SHEET of paper requires a broad (wide) table to read it properly, just like it requires a broad (deep) mind to understand its serious content.
Conceptual Metaphor
SERIOUSNESS IS LARGENESS / DEPTH IS PHYSICAL SIZE (Contrast with: TRIVIALITY IS SMALLNESS).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern connotation of the word 'broadsheet'?