Synonyms of sensationalized

sensationalized

verb

past tense of sensationalize

as in exaggerated

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.

Related Words

• exaggerated
• elaborated
• overemphasized
• colored
• overplayed
• overstated
• melodramatized
• stretched
• embellished
• overdid
• padded
• put on
• embroidered
• magnified
• played up
• overdrew
• hedged
• fudged

Dissimilar Words

• minimized
• understated
• belittled
• played down

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sensationalized

And there’s been so much written and said about Matthew over the years that’s really been sensationalized or derogatory. — Whitney Friedlander, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Unfortunately, so much about crime and punishment is politicized and sensationalized that even common-sense solutions can seem beyond reach. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026

Sorkin’s forte is the zippy, quippy, expository argument, simplified and sensationalized for public consumption. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 7 Oct. 2026

This keeps the performance informal and keeps the narrative — a staggering odyssey of injustices, abuses, travel adventures, extraordinary coincidences, losses, reunions, reflections and self-analysis — from becoming sensationalized. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026

In that aspect, The Whisper Man serves as a commentary on how serial killers are not only sensationalized in pop culture, but given borderline celebrity status. — Josh Weiss, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026

Co-directed by Alexandra Orton, the film combines Maddox’s personal video diaries, therapy sessions, and exclusive interviews while descending into Manson’s early background and sensationalized media persona as a monster. — Jake Kring-Schreifels, Time, 22 July 2026

That tragic moment was sensationalized in the press and for years was among the first things mentioned when discussing her work and legacy. — Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 15 July 2026

While local authorities say these takeovers are a problem, legal experts say they're being sensationalized in media reports and online. — Saleen Martin, USA Today, 2 June 2026