Commentator vs. Commenter: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 25, 2023
A "commentator" is a professional who provides expert commentary, often in media, while a "commenter" is anyone who comments on a topic, usually online.
Key Differences
In the realm of language, "commentator" and "commenter" are two words that, while closely related, have distinct nuances. A commentator typically refers to someone who provides expert analysis or commentary, especially in broadcast media or journalism. They usually have expertise or professional background in the subject they're discussing. Conversely, a commenter might not necessarily have this professional expertise but merely shares an opinion or observation on a given topic.
For instance, during a sports match, a commentator is the individual who gives a running commentary about the game, explaining plays and providing insights. Their role is to provide depth and understanding to viewers. A commenter, on the other hand, could be anyone from a fan posting their thoughts online to someone providing feedback on an article.
Platforms like blogs, websites, and social media have given rise to the term "commenter" due to the ability for virtually anyone to share their thoughts on a post or topic. The term commentator, however, has older roots and is more associated with established forms of media and professions, where individuals offer expert opinions.
In essence, while both commentator and commenter are involved in the act of commenting, the former often implies a degree of professional expertise or a formal role, whereas the latter is more general and can apply to anyone voicing an opinion.
Comparison Chart
Primary Role
Professional analysis or commentary
General observations or opinions
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Common Platforms
Television, radio, print journalism
Blogs, social media, online articles
Expertise Level
Often experts in the field they comment on
Might not have expertise in the subject
Duration of Commentary
Can be extensive and detailed
Typically brief and concise
Association
Traditional and established forms of media
Modern platforms and online interactions
Commentator and Commenter Definitions
Commentator
An expert who gives a running account of an event, especially in broadcasting.
The commentator during the soccer match provided insightful details about each player.
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Commenter
An individual who expresses opinions or reactions, typically online.
The commenter disagreed with the article's stance on environmental policies.
Commentator
An individual offering interpretations or explanations in media.
The financial commentator explained the implications of the new tax reforms.
Commenter
Someone who provides feedback or thoughts on a particular topic.
A regular commenter on the blog always had intriguing perspectives to share.
Commentator
Someone who provides professional opinions or reviews on specific topics.
The film commentator discussed the director's unique style in her latest movie.
Commenter
An individual contributing to digital conversations, often on platforms like social media.
The commenter's humorous take on the situation garnered many likes.
Commentator
A person who provides detailed analysis on a particular subject.
The political commentator dissected the president's speech on the evening news.
Commenter
A participant in online discussions or forums sharing personal views.
The commenter added valuable information from their personal experience to the discussion.
Commentator
A person in media tasked with offering insights and clarifications on events or subjects.
The sports commentator highlighted the team's strategies during the championship game.
Commenter
A person reacting to or giving opinions on articles, posts, or videos.
One commenter praised the video for its creativity and originality.
Commentator
A broadcaster or writer who reports and analyzes events in the news.
Commenter
One who comments.
Commenter
One who makes or writes comments; a commentator; an annotator.
FAQs
Is every commentator also a commenter?
While all commentators can be commenters in general, not all commenters have the professional expertise of commentators.
Can a commenter become a commentator?
Yes, if a commenter gains expertise and a platform, they can become a commentator.
Do commentators always have a background in what they comment on?
Typically, commentators have expertise or professional background in their subject, but there can be exceptions.
Which term is older, commentator or commenter?
"Commentator" is the older term, traditionally associated with established forms of media.
Which term is more commonly used on social media platforms?
"Commenter" is more common on social media, referring to users who comment on posts.
Which term is more prestigious, commentator or commenter?
"Commentator" often carries more prestige due to its association with expertise and professional media.
Can the terms commentator and commenter be used interchangeably?
While related, they have distinct nuances; it's best to use them in their specific contexts.
In what situations is it better to use "commentator" over "commenter"?
Use "commentator" when referring to someone with expertise providing analysis, especially in professional media.
Can someone be both a commentator and a commenter?
Yes, an individual can function as both, depending on the context.
Can a commenter have expertise in a subject?
Certainly, but the term itself doesn't inherently imply expertise.
Is a YouTube video creator a commentator or a commenter?
It varies. If they offer professional insights, they're commentators; if they simply share opinions, they're commenters.
Are online blog writers considered commentators or commenters?
It depends. If they provide expert analysis, they can be commentators. Otherwise, they might be seen as commenters.
Do news analysts fall under the category of commentator?
Yes, news analysts are typically considered commentators as they provide expert analysis.
What is the primary difference between a commentator and a commenter?
A commentator usually offers expert or professional commentary, while a commenter gives general opinions.
Is the term "commenter" a modern invention?
It has become more prevalent with online platforms, but the act of commenting has older roots.
Do commentators always speak neutrally?
Not always. Some commentators provide objective analysis, while others might have biases or viewpoints.
Is a commentator's role more formal than a commenter's?
Generally, yes. Commentators often have formal roles in media or events, while commenters can be informal.
Are commentators always paid for their insights?
While many are, especially in professional settings, not all commentators receive compensation.
How can one transition from being a commenter to a commentator?
Gaining expertise, building a reputation, and securing platforms or opportunities to provide formal commentary can help in this transition.
Are there any negative connotations with being labeled a commenter?
Not inherently, but "commenter" can sometimes imply a lack of expertise compared to "commentator."
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
