Fourth Estate

Pronunciation: /fɔrθ ɛˈsteɪt/

Definitions of fourth estate

noun The term 'fourth estate' refers to the press or news media, especially print journalism, as a collective institution with significant influence and power in society.

Example Sentences

A1 The fourth estate refers to journalists and media organizations.

A2 In a democracy, the fourth estate plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable.

B1 The fourth estate is often referred to as the watchdog of society, keeping a check on those in power.

B2 Freedom of the press is essential for the fourth estate to fulfill its role in society.

C1 The fourth estate is considered the unofficial fourth branch of government, providing checks and balances.

C2 Journalists belonging to the fourth estate have a responsibility to report truthfully and objectively.

Examples of fourth estate in a Sentence

formal The fourth estate plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable through investigative journalism.

informal Did you know that journalists are often referred to as the fourth estate?

slang The fourth estate is like the watchdogs of society, always keeping an eye on those in power.

figurative In the realm of politics, the fourth estate is often seen as a powerful check on government actions.

Grammatical Forms of fourth estate

• plural: fourth estates
• comparative: more fourth estate
• superlative: most fourth estate
• present tense: is fourth estate
• future tense: will be fourth estate
• perfect tense: has been fourth estate
• continuous tense: is being fourth estate
• singular: fourth estate
• positive degree: fourth estate
• infinitive: to be fourth estate
• gerund: being fourth estate
• participle: fourth estate

Origin and Evolution of fourth estate

First Known Use: 1787 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'fourth estate' originated in medieval Europe, referring to the political power of the press as a separate and influential entity alongside the clergy, nobility, and commoners.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to highlight the importance of the press in society, the term has evolved to encompass all forms of media that hold influence over public opinion and government accountability.