What does editorially mean?
"Editorially" is a formal adverb used chiefly in journalism and publishing to indicate that something relates to the editorial side of a publication rather than its commercial operations. When a news outlet describes itself as editorially independent, it means its journalists and editors decide what appears without interference from owners or advertisers. The adverb can also describe actions taken by editors themselves, such as changes made editorially during the revision of a manuscript. It derives ultimately from the Latin verb 'edere,' meaning 'to give out' or 'to publish,' which also gave English the words 'edit' and 'edition.' Because it almost always appears in professional media contexts, the word carries a serious, institutional tone and is rarely used in casual conversation.
In relation to the editing, content, or policy of a publication; from the standpoint of editorial judgment rather than commercial interest.
"The publication prides itself on remaining editorially independent from its corporate parent."
Most frequently encountered in discussions of press freedom and journalistic integrity.
By means of editorial action or decision; through the work of an editor.
"Several paragraphs were cut editorially before the article went to print."
Despite its '-ally' ending, "editorially" has nothing to do with allies — it descends from the Latin verb 'edere,' meaning 'to give out' or 'to publish.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of editorially
"Editorially" is formed from "editorial" plus the adverbial suffix "-ly." "Editorial" derives from "editor," which entered English in the early 17th century from Latin 'editor,' meaning 'one who puts forth,' from the verb 'edere,' 'to give out' or 'to publish.' Cognate formations from the same Latin root include "edition." The adverb developed alongside modern journalism, where distinguishing editorial decisions from commercial ones became an important professional concept.
Related word forms
How editorially is actually used
Formal in register, appearing chiefly in journalism, publishing, and media-discussion contexts. It most often signals a distinction between what is published and how a publication is run commercially.
Easily confused with editorially
"Editorial" is a noun meaning an opinion article or an adjective describing editorial matters, while "editorially" is the adverb describing how something is done from an editing standpoint.