What is the definition of a sound bite in political communication?

A sound bite in political communication is defined as a brief televised comment that effectively captures a thought or perspective. This definition highlights the essence of a sound bite, which is designed to be memorable and impactful in conveying a politician's message or opinion within a very limited timeframe, usually just a few seconds. The brevity and clarity of sound bites make them especially effective in media coverage, as they can easily be inserted into news segments and resonate with viewers, helping to shape public perception.

In contrast, lengthy discussions or comprehensive analyses don't fit the term "sound bite" as they typically provide much more detail and lack the succinctness required for the term. Similarly, behind-the-scenes strategy meetings involve planning and coordination that are not intended for public consumption, and thus aren't captured in the format of a sound bite. The defining characteristic of a sound bite is its capability to summarize and succinctly communicate key ideas, making option A the correct answer.