mainstream media
/ˈmeɪnstriːm ˈmiːdiə/
Meaning
Mainstream media refers to large, traditional mass media outlets (such as major television networks, newspapers, and movie studios) that reach and influence a highly broad audience. It represents the dominant, widely accepted cultural trends and viewpoints, often contrasted with independent, alternative, or niche media channels.
Examples
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Many independent filmmakers feel that their stories are ignored by the mainstream media.
Many independent filmmakers feel that their stories are ignored by the mainstream media.
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The story went viral online long before it was picked up by the mainstream media.
The story went viral online long before it was picked up by the mainstream media.
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Mainstream media tends to focus on blockbuster releases rather than indie films.
Mainstream media tends to focus on blockbuster releases rather than indie films.
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She decided to leave her job in mainstream media to start her own independent podcast.
She decided to leave her job in mainstream media to start her own independent podcast.
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Public trust in mainstream media has shifted significantly with the rise of social networks.
Public trust in mainstream media has shifted significantly with the rise of social networks.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The mainstream medias are covering the story.
✓ The mainstream media is covering the story.
'Media' is already plural (though often treated as a singular collective noun in this context). Do not add 's' to make 'medias'.
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✗ I don't watch the mainstream media.
✓ I don't watch mainstream media.
While 'the mainstream media' is sometimes used, it is much more natural to omit 'the' when speaking generally about the industry or concept.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Independent journalists often criticize the ___ for ignoring local issues.
💡 Large, traditional mass media outlets
Show answer
mainstream media
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To get a different perspective on the news, he avoids ___ entirely.
💡 Dominant, widely accepted media channels
Show answer
mainstream media