op-ed
Op-ed (noun) means a signed opinion article printed in a newspaper or published on its site, written by someone who is not on the paper's editorial board and expressing that writer's own argument. Example: “She wrote an op-ed arguing that the licence fee should be scrapped.”
How to Use Op-ed
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn opinion article in a newspaper, written by a guest rather than the paper itself.
Standard journalistic term; neutral in tone.
In British papers the same thing is often just called a comment piece.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
She wrote an _____ arguing that the licence fee should be scrapped.
Etymology
A shortening of 'opposite the editorial page', the position such columns traditionally occupied in a printed newspaper. It does not, despite the common assumption, stand for 'opinion editorial'.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for op-ed
See all rhymes for op-ed →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an op-ed and an editorial?
An editorial is unsigned and states the position of the newspaper itself, written by its editorial board. An op-ed carries a byline and expresses the personal view of an outside contributor, which the paper is not endorsing.
Does op-ed stand for opinion editorial?
No, although that reading is widespread. It comes from the pages being printed opposite the editorial page. Some outlets have now renamed the format 'guest essay' partly because the original meaning no longer makes sense online.
How long is a typical op-ed?
Most publications ask for roughly 600 to 800 words, built around a single clear argument and a specific news hook.