correspondant

Correspondant is a noun in French that broadly denotes a person who maintains correspondence, serves as a contact, or acts as a messenger. In English, the term correspondent is most commonly used to refer to a journalist who reports news from a particular location for a media outlet, or to someone who maintains ongoing communication with another party.

Etymology traces correspondance to the Latin correspondere, meaning to agree or to be connected. In French, the word forms with the present participle suffix -ant to describe a person who engages in correspondence or reporting.

In journalism, a correspondent is typically assigned to cover news from a specific place or topic. Foreign correspondents work from overseas, resident or bureau correspondents operate from a local office, and stringers provide reports on a freelance basis. Responsibilities include gathering information, interviewing sources, verifying facts, and writing reports in line with editorial standards. Correspondents may travel frequently, work under deadline pressure, and must balance speed with accuracy, while observing ethical and safety considerations.

Outside journalism, the term can describe a designated contact person within an organization or between organizations, or a person who maintains regular correspondence in professional or diplomatic contexts. In these uses, a correspondant or correspondent functions as a liaison, relaying information and coordinating communications.

In the digital age, the role of correspondents has evolved with new media and social platforms, but core duties—accuracy, reliability, and clear communication—remain central to the concept of correspondence and reporting.