GLOSSARY
What the labels on Optics News actually mean.
Plain-English definitions for the terms Optics uses. Each links through to a deeper explainer with an example and cross-references.
An Optics News label for stories where multiple outlets covered the same event but the wording creates a different first impression.
Mostly SameAn Optics News label for stories where multiple outlets covered the same event and the wording is broadly aligned.
Needs ReviewAn Optics News label for stories where the source map is too narrow, too one-sided, or mixes incompatible article formats.
Wording GapA 0-99 score Optics News uses internally to rank how different two headlines feel for the same event.
FramingHow a news headline tells readers what to feel about an event before the article is opened.
BlindspotA story where 8+ outlets covered the same event but one side of the political spectrum is barely represented.
Loaded WordsHeadline words that carry an emotional or political charge beyond their literal meaning.
Source SpreadThe mix of Left, Center, and Right outlets currently covering a story.
Media BiasA pattern where a news outlet consistently frames events to favor one political worldview.
For the technical detail (similarity thresholds, confidence tiers, Gemini check), see the methodology page.