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midlist

midlist

1 7.1
Of a book or writer that sells steadily but not in large numbers
  • adjective
  • /ˈmɪdˌlɪst/
  • Jargon
: intermedio
  • Her latest novel is considered a midlist title, as it sells steadily but hasn't reached the top of the charts.

Examples

  • The publisher decided to promote his midlist book with a marketing campaign to boost its visibility.

  • Many talented authors find themselves categorized as midlist writers, often struggling to gain widespread recognition.

  • But I also depend on my books for income, and even bestsellers become midlist backlist books after a decade or more.

    Blog text (5)

Antonyms

65 2.4

A book or product that sells many copies soon after release

31 4.3

A project or event that does not succeed

How Successful

best-selling
102 2.7
successful
∞ 1.6
midlist
  • Jargon
1 7.1
obscure
86 7.0
unsuccessful
75 2.9

Surface Forms

midlist positive

Morphology

midlist = list (semi-transparent) = mid + list

Formally 'mid' + 'list' is clear, but the publishing-specific sense of 'list' (publisher's catalogue) and the jargon meaning 'midlist title' require domain knowledge.

Etymology

Midlist comes from mid 'middle' and list 'a list of books a publisher sells'. It describes a book or writer that sits in the middle of success, with steady sales but not a big hit.