The word ‘journalist’ is derived from
(A) Journalography
(B) Diurnalis
(C) Diurna
(D) Journology
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
The Latin term ‘Diurnalis’ originally gave rise to the word ‘journalist.’ This term means ‘daily,’ which clearly connects to the profession’s focus on delivering news regularly. Over time, people gradually modified ‘Diurnalis’ into ‘journal,’ which eventually referred to daily records of events and news.
In ancient Rome, officials carefully recorded public events and displayed them for citizens to read. They specifically called these records Acta Diurna, which served as an early news bulletin. As a result, this practice strongly influenced modern journalism.
Later, when the printing press emerged in the 15th century, newspapers quickly became a key source of information. Since people needed individuals to report and document news, the term ‘journalist’ became more popular. Consequently, journalism started evolving as a profession.
By the 17th and 18th centuries, journalism had gained significant professional recognition. Writers, reporters, and editors actively shaped public opinion by sharing important events. As a result, the demand for accurate and timely news steadily increased, further strengthening journalism’s role.
As mass communication continued to advance, journalists played an even more crucial role in informing and educating the public. Therefore, the term ‘journalist’ spread globally, reinforcing its Latin origin. Even today, people continue to associate ‘Diurnalis’ with the fundamental duty of journalists—to report daily news with accuracy and integrity.
