Ferireferire

Ferireferire is a neologism in Italian used to describe a communicative practice in which a statement is presented as a factual report while simultaneously causing emotional or social harm to a person or group. The term combines ferire, to wound, with riferire, to report, signaling a blend of harm and reporting that can mislead readers about the reliability or intent of the information. It is primarily discussed in media studies, discourse analysis, and online culture criticism, and is not yet a formally standardized term in Italian dictionaries.

In critical use, ferireferire labeling is applied to statements that weaponize alleged facts, using a tone of authority to normalize unverified or harmful claims. The concept highlights how framing and rhetoric can impose moral or reputational injury while appearing to present evidence. Proponents view ferireferire as a useful descriptor for analyzing how some journalism, opinion writing, or social media posts blend accusation with supposed reportage, potentially lowering the threshold for harm.

Origins and usage have emerged in Italian discourse during the late 2010s among scholars and critics studying online rhetoric and media influence. The term remains relatively uncommon and is not universally adopted; its exact scope and interpretation can vary across authors and contexts. Critics of ferireferire argue that it risks pathologizing aggressive discourse, while supporters see it as a clarifying label for a real-world pattern in communication.

Related concepts include rhetorical devices, defamatory speech, misinformation, media ethics, and online harassment.