SENSATIONALIZE Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

sensationalize

verb

Definition of sensationalize

as in to exaggerate

disapproving to describe or show something in a way that makes it seem more shocking than it really is Journalists should report the news accurately without trying to sensationalize it.

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of sensationalize At the same time, media coverage can sometimes sensationalize isolated incidents, creating a perception that crime is worsening even when overall trends are improving. — Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 May 2026 Gaspar-Oliveri doesn’t sensationalize the boy’s behavior but presents it as a devastating consequence of a stunted childhood. — Carlos Aguilar, IndieWire, 15 May 2026 That’s an important thing, to not sensationalize it and not glorify it. — Mark Hughes, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026 The violence is not sensationalized, where nothing comes of it. — ArsTechnica, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensationalize

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensationalize

exaggerate

Verb

The president designated the gang as a terrorist group and said Maduro had sent it to invade the United States, although some law enforcement officials say the administration exaggerated the threat to justify mass deportations.

— Sebastian Rotella, ProPublica, 10 July 2026
The best place to start is a sporting culture that exaggerates accomplishments and rewards capitalistic success before the sporting variety.

— Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026