ratings war

Meaning

A 'ratings war' refers to an intense, aggressive competition between television networks, streaming platforms, or media outlets to secure the largest possible audience share. This term is frequently used in media analysis, journalism, and business contexts to describe tactical scheduling and high-budget programming decisions. The tone is analytical and objective, highlighting the high-stakes nature of media competition.

Examples

• The two major networks are locked in a fierce ratings war, scheduling their flagship dramas in the same prime-time slot.

  The two major networks are locked in a fierce ratings war, scheduling their flagship dramas in the same prime-time slot.

• To win the annual ratings war, the streaming giant invested heavily in star-studded original productions.

  To win the annual ratings war, the streaming giant invested heavily in star-studded original productions.

• Industry analysts suggest that the current ratings war is driving up the quality of television journalism.

  Industry analysts suggest that the current ratings war is driving up the quality of television journalism.

• The sudden cancellation of the late-night show was a direct casualty of the ongoing ratings war.

  The sudden cancellation of the late-night show was a direct casualty of the ongoing ratings war.

• During the election season, the ratings war between cable news channels reached unprecedented levels of intensity.

  During the election season, the ratings war between cable news channels reached unprecedented levels of intensity.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The channels are having a rating war.

  ✓ The channels are locked in a ratings war.

  'Ratings' must be plural in this compound noun. Additionally, it is highly idiomatic to use the verb 'lock in' or 'engage in' rather than 'have' to describe this intense struggle.

• ✗ The ratings war of the two shows was very tense.

  ✓ The ratings war between the two shows was very tense.

  Use the preposition 'between' when comparing or discussing the conflict involving two specific competing parties.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The network executives hoped the controversial interview would give them an edge in the ongoing ___.

  💡 A competitive battle for viewers.

  Show answer

  ratings war

• Streaming services have entered a global ___ to attract subscriber attention.

  💡 Fierce competition for audience numbers.

  Show answer

  ratings war