thatomission

Thatomission is a neologism describing the phenomenon in which important contextual information is omitted in communication, altering interpretation and perceived significance. While not a formal linguistic category, thatomission has been discussed in media studies, political communication, and information ethics as a factor shaping audience understanding. The term blends “that” and “omission” to emphasize the role of contextual connectives and qualifying statements that are missing, such as caveats, sources, alternative explanations, or scope conditions.

In practice, thatomission occurs when speakers, writers, or algorithms omit details that would normally accompany a statement. Examples include news headlines that fail to mention caveats, policy summaries that skip limitations, or AI-generated summaries that exclude dissenting views. The effect is to create a biased or simplified impression, even if the omitted information is not false.

Scholars discuss thatomission alongside framing and selection bias, noting that ethical assessment depends on intent and impact. Some critics argue the term is overly broad, calling for clear criteria to distinguish legitimate summarization from harmful omission. Proponents argue that recognizing thatomission enhances critical media literacy and accountability for communicators. See also: omission, framing (communication), information bias, cherry-picking, media literacy.