We have met the media, and they are us
May 12th, 2008 at 11:52am Barry Wood
The more varied and crowded the media field gets, the more some people want to lump us together. So far, those arguing for “media” as a collective noun and therefore singular are in the minority, but the ranks are growing.
The Register Star follows Associated Press style: “Media” is plural. Many dictionaries, usage guides and other stylebooks agree.
There was a time when journalists were referred to as “the press,” no matter what medium was used to disseminate their information. Nowadays, those who don’t use a printing press often prefer “media.” Related terms still seem to be OK, though: press agent, press secretary, the pressroom in the White House and press conference.
By the way, the AP prefers “news conference” for that last one, even though the news value of a “press conference” can be questionable. No matter what it’s called, all the media show up.
Entry Filed under: unusual plurals, noun-verb agreement
4 Comments Add your own
1. George Washington | May 12th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Anybody who argues with you on words is looney. You are the absolute king. You are the wordsmith to top all wordsmiths.
2. Barry Wood | May 13th, 2008 at 12:51 am
Dear Mr. Washington:
First of all, thanks for this great country you fathered. On the whole, it seems to be working out well.
Second, thank you for the compliment. A Mel Brooks character said, “It’s good to be the king,” but I’m not so sure. The only way to go is down.
3. Dwight D. Eisenhower | May 13th, 2008 at 8:21 am
I agree with George. Count me in as a member of the Woodies!
4. Barry Wood | May 14th, 2008 at 1:16 am
Dear Mr. Eisenhower,
It’s an honor to hear from the man who inspired possibly the best campaign slogan ever: “I like Ike.” What’s not to like about that?
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