COMUNICAT

Comunicat is a Romanian term referring to a formal public statement issued by an organization to inform the media and the public about news, events, or positions. It is a basic tool in public relations and journalism for disseminating official information in a concise and controlled manner.

Etymology and usage context: The word derives from the Latin communicare, meaning to share. In Romanian practice, a comunicat (often accompanied by de presă, meaning press release) is used to present an organization's official stance or to announce developments. It is intended for broad distribution to journalists, editors, and other stakeholders, and it may also be posted on the organization’s website or distributed via email or newswires.

Purpose and function: The comunicat serves to provide verified, time-relevant information in a standardized format. It helps shape media coverage, establish an official record, and guide subsequent reporting. While primarily aimed at external audiences, it can also function as a reference document for internal communications and archival purposes.

Structure and typical content: A comunicat usually begins with a heading such as COMUNICAT or COMUNICAT DE PRESĂ, followed by the date and place. It includes a headline, a lead paragraph that answers who, what, when, where, and why, a body with supporting details, and quotes from authorized spokespersons. It ends with a boilerplate about the organization and contact information for media inquiries; embargo terms or distribution notes may also be indicated.

Variations and related terms: The term can be used interchangeably with "comunicat de presă" in many contexts. It may also appear as an internal communiqué in organizational communications, though its primary function remains external public communication. See also press release, public relations.