Media and Entertainment Key Terms

Understand media and entertainment key terms to help navigate the industry

By Kristan Hart

Very few people, especially in America, go through life untouched by the media and entertainment industry. However, the terminology associated with media and entertainment isn't as common. Understanding the vocabulary is necessary if you find yourself working in the media and entertainment industry. Consider these terms to help you out.

Journalism

Journalism is the reliable reporting of current events and news through various media like television, radio, newspapers, magazines and the Internet. News journalists formulate feature stories, breaking news and investigative reports. Opinion journalists produce columns, reviews and editorials.
Try: The University of Western Ontario offers a complete definition of journalism.

Digital broadcasting

Digital broadcasting is the transmission of digital signals over the air. This replaces the old analog signals that used to be the standard for over the air broadcasting. Digital broadcasting allows for more options and higher quality.
Try: The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) explains digital broadcasting and how it impacts both television and radio.

Cable networks

Cable networks are a package of channels received through cable or satellite. On older systems, there may only be 20 cable networks. However, on newer cable and satellite systems, there could be more than 150 cable networks.
Try: The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) offers in depth information about cable networks in the media and entertainment industry.

Local channels

Whether through a free signal over the air or through cable or satellite, local channels offer information that pertains to your particular area of the country. Local channels often feature news, weather and other local programming to help keep citizens in the area informed.
Try: DISH Network offers a list of the local channels available in most of its markets.

Television ratings

Television ratings are a scale to determine the popularity of a program. Using statistical sampling, the ratings company can determine which shows are popular and which shows are not. Networks use this information to renew, revise or cancel television shows.
Try: HowStuffWorks explains the television ratings process.

Live television

Live television is programming performed live on location, and broadcast to the audience without editing. Live television offers talent one chance to get it right, because there's no time to edit mistakes. Many awards shows and news programs are broadcast live. However, many networks require a three or five-second delay so there's time to respond in the event of an inappropriate situation.
Try: TV Acres offers a television glossary which includes the definition of live television.