The term "on message" refers to the act of staying on-topic and delivering a consistent message. In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be written as /ɒn ˈmɛsɪdʒ/. The first syllable, "on", is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɒ/, as in "John". The second syllable, "mes", is pronounced with the short e sound /ɛ/. The final syllable, "sage", is pronounced with a soft g sound /dʒ/, like the "j" in "jeans." Together, the word is a concise expression of staying focused in communication.
"On message" is a phrase that originated in political and media contexts, but has now become widely used in general communication. It refers to the act of delivering a message that is consistent with a predetermined strategy or narrative. When someone is "on message," they are effectively conveying a specific point or viewpoint that aligns with their overall objective.
In political settings, being "on message" means adhering to a carefully crafted set of talking points or agenda. It involves staying focused on key issues and promoting a particular viewpoint, while avoiding any statements that may undermine the intended narrative. Being "on message" is often crucial for politicians, as it helps to maintain consistency and clarity in their communication, and can rally support from constituents.
Beyond the realm of politics, being "on message" is relevant in the domains of public relations, advertising, and media campaigns. It encompasses the idea of staying true to a central theme or persuasive message when promoting a product, service, or idea. This ensures that the communication is cohesive, effective, and easily understood by the target audience.
By staying "on message," individuals and organizations can enhance their communication efforts, maintain a unified and coherent brand image, and achieve their intended objectives. It emphasizes the importance of staying focused, disciplined, and consistent in conveying a specific message or narrative to effectively persuade and influence others.
The etymology of the phrase "on message" is closely related to the field of political communication and public relations. The term originated in the context of political campaigns and media management in the late 20th century.
The word "message" in this phrase refers to the strategic communication or narrative that a politician, organization, or campaign wishes to convey to the public. Being "on message" means effectively communicating and staying focused on the predetermined talking points or themes that align with the desired message.
While there is no definitive source that pinpointed the exact origin of the phrase, it gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s within American political campaigns. It became a fundamental concept in media training and strategic communication, emphasizing the need to consistently deliver a coherent message, avoid diversions, and stay "on message" to shape public opinion.