The New York Times’ headline about the four women who have accused New York attorney general Eric Schneiderman of “violent abuse” is interestingly passive.
Breaking News: 4 women are said to have accused New York’s attorney general, Eric Schneiderman, of assault. He had long cast himself as a champion of women. https://t.co/AvFzL5EVfH
— The New York Times (@nytimes) May 7, 2018
That is very unusual headline phraseology. Since it’s based off a report from the New York Post, you would expect to read “reportedly” or something of the like.
But there is a reason the Times chose to go with “are said.”
Newspaper of record is said to have used passive voice to avoid crediting a competitor in a headline. pic.twitter.com/LASCoIVQPS
— Josh Greenman (@joshgreenman) May 8, 2018
That is said to be a very shortsighted strategy.
Related:
HOLY SH*T! Four women accuse #MeToo crusader NY AG Eric Schneiderman of 'violent physical abuse' https://t.co/qTBgti5ZV0
— Twitchy Team (@TwitchyTeam) May 7, 2018
'UNCANNY'! This Donald Trump tweet about NY AG Eric Schneiderman proved SPOOKILY SPOT-ON https://t.co/yEugaJDYHv
— Twitchy Team (@TwitchyTeam) May 8, 2018
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