English Reference
noun · adjective

editorial

n. · adj.
US /ˌɛdəˈtɔɹiəɫ/ UK /ˌɛdɪtˈɔːɹɪəl/ ed·i·to·ri·al UK spelling editorials

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.an article in a newspaper or magazine that gives the official opinion of the editors on a specific topic.

    n.a persuasive article in a periodical expressing the collective opinion of the publication's editors or publishers.

    Simple

    The newspaper published a strong editorial arguing for better public transport in the city.

    In context

    The Sunday edition featured a scathing editorial that criticised the government's failure to address the rising cost of living.

    Usage

    Often used with the verb 'write' or 'publish'.

    leaderopinion piececommentary
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    adj.relating to the work of an editor or the process coordinates of preparing a text for publication.

    adj.pertaining to the activities, decisions, or staff involved in editing a publication.

    Simple

    She made a few editorial changes to the report to make it easier to read.

    In context

    The final manuscript required significant editorial intervention to ensure the tone remained consistent across all twelve chapters.

    Usage

    Commonly modifies nouns like 'changes', 'decisions', or 'staff'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Informal

    adj.a style of photography or clothing that looks like it belongs in a high-fashion magazine.

    adj.denoting a style of photography or fashion characterised by artistic, dramatic, or non-commercial aesthetics typical of magazine spreads.

    Simple

    The model's makeup was very editorial and not something you would wear to work.

    In context

    The photographer opted for an editorial look, using harsh shadows and avant-garde poses rather than traditional portrait techniques.

    Teacher's tip

    In the fashion industry, 'editorial' is often contrasted with 'commercial' work.

    stylisedhigh fashion

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

Al Jazeera· 15 Aug 2026

Three scientific journals are already testing the system as part of their editorial review process.

ScienceDaily· 16 Jul 2026

From editor + -ial.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated