Feature vs. Article — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 3, 2024
A feature is a detailed piece of writing focusing on style and narrative to explore topics in depth, whereas an article is more about delivering news, information, or analysis in a straightforward manner.
Difference Between Feature and Article
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Features often emphasize human interest stories, engaging the reader with a narrative that delves into the nuances and backgrounds of a subject. They are typically longer than articles, providing a comprehensive look at their topics through interviews, descriptions, and personal insights. On the other hand, articles are more focused on presenting facts, updates, or insights into current events and specific subjects. They aim to inform or explain, sticking closely to the who, what, when, where, and why.
While features may include elements of storytelling, such as character development and a more flexible structure, articles adhere to a more rigid format, prioritizing clarity and conciseness. Features allow for creative freedom, using various literary techniques to enhance the narrative. Articles, however, prioritize efficiency in communication, often using an inverted pyramid structure to present the most important information first.
The tone of a feature can vary widely, from light and entertaining to serious and thought-provoking, depending on the subject matter and the writer's style. Articles tend to maintain a consistent tone that aligns with the publication's style or the nature of the information being presented, often aiming for neutrality and objectivity.
Features are typically found in magazines, Sunday newspapers, and online platforms that cater to longer reading sessions. They provide readers with a deep dive into a topic, offering insights and perspectives that go beyond surface-level understanding. Articles are ubiquitous across media outlets, including newspapers, websites, and journals, serving as the backbone of news and information dissemination.
Features aim to connect on a more emotional or intellectual level, encouraging readers to think critically about a topic or enjoy the richness of a well-told story. Articles, by focusing on timely and relevant information, cater to readers seeking to stay informed about the world around them, often appealing to a broader audience with a variety of interests.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
To entertain, inform, and engage deeply
To inform, update, or analyze concisely
Structure
Narrative, flexible
Inverted pyramid, structured
Tone
Varies; often narrative or descriptive
Usually neutral and objective
Length
Longer, detailed
Shorter, to the point
Content
Human interest, in-depth exploration
News, information, straightforward analysis
Audience Engagement
Emotional/intellectual connection
Timely information, broader appeal
Placement
Magazines, Sunday newspapers, online platforms
Newspapers, websites, journals
Writing Style
Descriptive, creative
Concise, factual
Focus
Background, nuance, perspective
Facts, updates, insights
Compare with Definitions
Feature
A narrative-driven piece that delves into subjects more deeply than a standard news report.
The feature on climate change highlighted individuals' stories to illustrate the impact on everyday lives.
Article
A piece of writing focused on delivering news or information in a structured and concise way.
The newspaper article covered the recent election results with detailed analysis and statistics.
Feature
An article designed to entertain, inform, and engage readers beyond the presentation of facts.
Her feature on ancient cuisines revived interest in traditional cooking methods.
Article
Intended to inform, explain, or update readers on a specific topic or event.
The health section's article on the flu vaccine dispelled myths and provided practical advice.
Feature
A detailed exploration of a topic, often highlighting personal stories or unique angles.
The magazine's feature on local artists showcases the vibrant community behind the city's art scene.
Article
Characterized by its use of an inverted pyramid structure, presenting the most crucial information first.
The breaking news article quickly informed readers of the main facts before delving into details.
Feature
Often characterized by a focus on human interest elements and descriptive language.
The sports feature captured the drama and passion behind the team's unexpected victory.
Article
Often maintains a neutral and objective tone, regardless of the subject matter.
The financial article provided an unbiased overview of the stock market's performance.
Feature
A form of journalistic writing that allows for a more flexible structure and creative expression.
The travel feature offered readers a narrative journey through hidden gems in Europe.
Article
Serves as the backbone of news and information dissemination across various media.
Her article on environmental policies influenced public discourse and awareness.
Feature
The cast or structure of anything, or of any part of a thing, as of a landscape, a picture, a treaty, or an essay; any marked peculiarity or characteristic.
One of the features of the landscape
Feature
The make, form, or outward appearance of a person; the whole turn or style of the body; esp., good appearance.
What needeth it his feature to descrive?
Cheated of feature by dissembling nature.
Feature
The principal (full-length) film in a program at a movie theater;
The feature tonight is `Casablanca'
Feature
A special or prominent article in a newspaper or magazine;
They ran a feature on retirement planning
Feature
An article of merchandise that is displayed or advertised more than other articles
Feature
Have as a feature;
This restaurant features the most famous chefs in France
Common Curiosities
Do features have a specific structure?
While flexible, features often follow a narrative arc, with a beginning, middle, and end that guides readers through the story.
What defines a feature in journalism?
A feature is defined by its in-depth exploration, narrative style, and emphasis on storytelling to engage readers.
How long is a typical feature?
Features can vary in length but often exceed 1,000 words, allowing for detailed exploration of the topic.
Can features be about any topic?
Yes, features can cover a wide range of topics, from human interest stories to detailed analyses of complex issues.
Are articles biased?
Articles strive for neutrality and objectivity, presenting facts without obvious bias, though the level of neutrality can vary depending on the source.
What is the primary purpose of an article?
The primary purpose of an article is to inform, update, or analyze a specific topic or event in a concise manner.
How do features engage readers?
Features engage readers through storytelling, descriptive language, and presenting new perspectives on familiar topics.
How does the structure of an article aid in its purpose?
The inverted pyramid structure ensures that the most important information is presented first, making it easier for readers to grasp the key points.
Can articles cover complex issues?
Yes, articles can cover complex issues but typically do so in a more straightforward and concise manner than features.
What makes an article effective?
An effective article delivers clear, accurate, and concise information, allowing readers to quickly understand the topic or news event.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
