Throughout the years I have certainly seen and heard my fair share of tired TV terms. You could have the most compelling story in the world, but it doesn’t matter if no one watches. In my opinion, these are some of the worst offenders in the bunch!
“More on”
Example: “I’ll have more on that story, tonight at 11.”
Say it with me out loud…”more on” sounds like “moron.” Let’s avoid negative word association and instead spend our time informing viewers. If I see a reporter on television, I expect them to tell me more and well…report. Substitute this phrase with more relevant information. Where is the story? Why should the viewer care? What is the hook? At the very least, change the order of the words. Please avoid on social media as well.
“Speaking out”
Example: “The victim’s family is speaking out for the first time.”
Other forms to avoid:
“Breaking his/her silence”
“Giving a voice”
“Shedding a light on”
The subject of the story already has a voice. Reporters give sources a respectable platform to share their story. Yes, cameras have lights and journalists often have light kits, but that is not how light is shed on a subject. Specific information is better. What is the subject? What are they saying? What is the sentiment?
“Log on”
Example: “For more information log on to our website.”
Gone are the days of logging on to the Internet. Most likely, viewers won’t even be using a computer. If they are interested, they will search on the smartphone they are already looking at (while half-listening to the report). Instead say “visit” or “go to.” The “www” (aka World Wide Web) part is no longer needed. Just say the site name “.org” or “.com”, etc.
“Reacts” or “Reaction”
Example: “I’ll have the team’s reaction after the game.”
Promising reaction is too vague for both features and hard-hitting news reports. Instead, tease specifics surrounding the story. Are people happy, upset or shocked? If the home team lost, disappointment is expected. If the community is dealing with a tragic loss, people are sad. Emotions are valid and they will guide both your stories and your teases.
“I’ll have the details…”
Example: “I’ll have the details, tonight at 6.”
Other forms to avoid:
“I’ll have more…”
“I’ll have the very latest…”
In the words of Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, “tell me more, tell me more, tell me more!” Viewers are watching a newscast, they expect reporters to tell them information. Be more specific and tease a certain element. Even if it is a breaking news story, give viewers a nugget of information.
Honorable mentions:
“Late Breaking” – so, you are late giving me this information?
“Parent’s worst nightmare” – how do you know? Are there clowns involved?
“Broad daylight” – the crime happened directly in the sunlight? Was it on Broad Street?
“Tip of the iceberg” – and that’s just the icing on the cake to end this blog post.