Here's what characterizes a splash:
* Prominence: It's the most important story of the day, chosen by the editors.
* Newsworthiness: It covers a significant event or development, often breaking news or a major issue.
* Visual Impact: The large headline, accompanying photos, and potentially even illustrations make it visually striking.
* Location: It's almost always at the top of the front page, sometimes spanning multiple columns.
Why Newspapers Use Splashes:
* Grab Attention: They attract readers and highlight the most important news.
* Set the Tone: They signal the newspaper's priorities and editorial stance.
* Drive Sales: They can encourage readers to buy the paper, particularly when covering sensational stories.
Examples of Splashes:
* Breaking news: A major political scandal, a natural disaster, or a major crime.
* Major events: Election results, sports championships, or significant anniversaries.
* Public interest stories: In-depth investigations, health concerns, or cultural trends.
The term "splash" comes from the idea that the story makes a big impact, like a drop of water splashing in a pond.