This website is using cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible on our website.
More info: Privacy & Cookies, Imprint
A gloss is a special form of journalistic writing that is usually humorous, ironic, satirical or sarcastic. It aims to deal with a topic, person, event or situation in a lighter and more entertaining way, often through exaggeration or humorous criticism. Glosses are usually shorter texts published in newspapers, magazines or online publications. Here are some important characteristics of a gloss:
Humour and satire: The gloss is primarily humorous and often uses satirical elements to refer to the topic or situation being discussed. It may contain humorous remarks, puns, irony and sarcasm.
Light and entertaining writing: Glosses are usually easy to digest and are intended to entertain readers. They are often written in an informal or colloquial tone.
Exaggeration: Often, glosses deliberately exaggerate issues or situations for humorous effect. This can help to expose certain aspects or problems.
Current issues: Glosses often cover current events, news or social trends. They may address political events, celebrities, pop culture or everyday experiences.
Personal tone: The author of a gloss often expresses his or her personal opinion or point of view, which helps give the text an individual touch.
Short and concise: Glosses are usually shorter texts that focus on the essentials and get to the point quickly.
Distinguish between news and reports: Glosses should be clearly distinguished from news reports or journalistic articles, as they are primarily intended to entertain and do not aim to present objective facts or news.
Glossaries can address a diverse range of topics and often serve to give readers a break from serious news. However, they are also useful for commenting on social or political grievances in a humorous way and can help address complex issues in an easy-to-understand manner. Glosses are often written by experienced and humorous journalists or writers.