standfirst

n. in British journalism, introductory or summary information above a newspaper article; a kicker (U.S.); a précis. Subjects: English, United Kingdom, Media, Jargon

Editorial Note: Sometimes wrongly used as a synonym with lead (or lede), which is part of the article whereas a standfirst is not. The content of the May 6, 2003, citation is made of in-house editing notes which ordinarily would not pass through the editorial process onto the news wires.

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Citations: 1990 Jonathan Croall @ Somerset, Eng. Guardian (U.K.) (Nov. 6) “Poll tax is further threatening the already much depleted school dinner service”: Standfirst matter: The abolition of school meals is looming for more authorities as they grapple with the effects of the poll tax. Jonathan Croall reports on the struggle to save the service in Somerset. 1996 Mary Edwards Guardian (U.K.) (Apr. 16) “Primary: Writing Made Simple” p. 13: Each article has a headline printed in large bold letters, followed by a brief description, called a standfirst, and a byline, which is the reporter’s name. 2003 Jerry Frank Lloyd’s List (U.K.) (May 6) p. 2: Xxxxxxx—Please write four decks of headline thanksPlease write a standfirst. 2003 Rachel Cooke Observer (U.K.) (Sept. 7) “It will fit in your handbag, but is bigger than Cosmo” p. 9: Midway through a communications degree, she landed a job on the Oz teen bible, Dolly, and gave up “spending six weeks learning how to write a standfirst” in favour of doing the job for real.

Posted 15 Oct 04 | Permalink | Tell a Friend