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disinformation

noun

/ˌdɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disinformation

The deliberate spread of false or misleading information in order to deceive or manipulate people.
"The disinformation campaign aimed to influence the outcome of the election."

Detailed meaning of disinformation

It is a form of propaganda and is often used to influence public opinion, interfere in politics, or disrupt social stability. Disinformation is a type of information operation that is designed to create confusion and sow doubt, making it difficult to differentiate between what is true and what is false. Disinformation can take many forms, such as fabricated news stories, doctored images and videos, and false statements attributed to real people or organizations. It can be spread through traditional media, social media, and other online platforms. Disinformation campaigns are often run by governments or other powerful actors, but can also be carried out by non-state actors, such as criminal organizations or individuals. Disinformation is a significant threat to national security, democracy and public trust in institutions, as it can undermine public confidence in government, media, and other key institutions.

Example sentences containing disinformation

1. The government launched a campaign to combat disinformation spread on social media.
2. The intelligence agency identified a network involved in spreading disinformation to manipulate public opinion.
3. It is essential to verify the sources of information to avoid falling victim to disinformation.
4. The disinformation campaign was designed to create confusion and mistrust among the rival political factions.
5. During the election period, the public was inundated with disinformation from various quarters.
6. The journalist dedicated her career to debunking disinformation and reporting the truth.

History and etymology of disinformation

The noun 'disinformation' has a relatively modern etymology and is rooted in English. It is formed by adding the prefix 'dis-' to the word 'information.' 'Dis-' is often used to indicate negation or reversal. 'Disinformation' emerged during the 20th century, particularly during the Cold War era, to describe the deliberate spread of false or misleading information with the intention of deceiving or manipulating people, often for political or strategic purposes. The term gained prominence in the context of intelligence and propaganda operations. Its etymology underscores the idea of information being distorted or reversed to create confusion and deception, emphasizing the deliberate and often sinister nature of this form of misinformation.

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Further usage examples of disinformation

1. The rise of disinformation on the internet has made it more difficult for individuals to discern fact from fiction.
2. The company faced backlash for its role in spreading disinformation through its online platform.
3. The government accused foreign entities of trying to destabilize the country through a disinformation campaign.
4. Educators are now focusing on teaching students critical thinking skills to better evaluate potential disinformation.
5. The spread of disinformation during the health crisis hindered efforts to effectively address the issue.
6. The panel discussion focused on the role of media in preventing the spread of disinformation.
7. The organization launched a new fact-checking tool to help people identify and report disinformation.
8. The candidate accused his opponent of using disinformation to tarnish his reputation.
9. Social networks are increasingly being scrutinized for their role in the proliferation of disinformation.
10. Disinformation campaigns can have far-reaching consequences.
11. The spread of disinformation is a growing global concern.
12. Social media is a common platform for disinformation.
13. People often fall victim to clever disinformation tactics.
14. Disinformation can undermine trust in institutions.
15. Fact-checking is essential to combat disinformation.
16. Disinformation thrives in an era of information overload.
17. Disinformation can be used as a tool of manipulation.
18. Recognizing disinformation is crucial for media literacy.
19. Governments must address the issue of disinformation.
20. Disinformation campaigns often target vulnerable groups.
21. Disinformation can polarize society and fuel conflict.
22. Disinformation can spread rapidly through echo chambers.
23. Disinformation can disrupt the democratic process.
24. Journalists play a vital role in countering disinformation.