Commentator vs. Commenter: What's the Difference?

Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || 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.

Oct 25, 2023

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.

Oct 25, 2023

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.

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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.

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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

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Expertise Level

Often experts in the field they comment on

Might not have expertise in the subject

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Duration of Commentary

Can be extensive and detailed

Typically brief and concise

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Association

Traditional and established forms of media

Modern platforms and online interactions

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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.

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Commentator

An individual offering interpretations or explanations in media.

The financial commentator explained the implications of the new tax reforms.

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Commenter

Someone who provides feedback or thoughts on a particular topic.

A regular commenter on the blog always had intriguing perspectives to share.

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Commentator

Someone who provides professional opinions or reviews on specific topics.

The film commentator discussed the director's unique style in her latest movie.

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Commenter

An individual contributing to digital conversations, often on platforms like social media.

The commenter's humorous take on the situation garnered many likes.

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Commentator

A person who provides detailed analysis on a particular subject.

The political commentator dissected the president's speech on the evening news.

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Commenter

A participant in online discussions or forums sharing personal views.

The commenter added valuable information from their personal experience to the discussion.

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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.

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Commenter

A person reacting to or giving opinions on articles, posts, or videos.

One commenter praised the video for its creativity and originality.

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Commentator

A broadcaster or writer who reports and analyzes events in the news.

Jan 11, 2021

Commenter

One who comments.

Jan 11, 2021

Commenter

One who makes or writes comments; a commentator; an annotator.

Jan 11, 2021

FAQs

Is every commentator also a commenter?

While all commentators can be commenters in general, not all commenters have the professional expertise of commentators.

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Can a commenter become a commentator?

Yes, if a commenter gains expertise and a platform, they can become a commentator.

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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.

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Which term is older, commentator or commenter?

"Commentator" is the older term, traditionally associated with established forms of media.

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Which term is more commonly used on social media platforms?

"Commenter" is more common on social media, referring to users who comment on posts.

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Which term is more prestigious, commentator or commenter?

"Commentator" often carries more prestige due to its association with expertise and professional media.

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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.

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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.

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Can someone be both a commentator and a commenter?

Yes, an individual can function as both, depending on the context.

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Can a commenter have expertise in a subject?

Certainly, but the term itself doesn't inherently imply expertise.

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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.

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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.

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Do news analysts fall under the category of commentator?

Yes, news analysts are typically considered commentators as they provide expert analysis.

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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.

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Is the term "commenter" a modern invention?

It has become more prevalent with online platforms, but the act of commenting has older roots.

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Do commentators always speak neutrally?

Not always. Some commentators provide objective analysis, while others might have biases or viewpoints.

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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.

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Are commentators always paid for their insights?

While many are, especially in professional settings, not all commentators receive compensation.

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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.

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Are there any negative connotations with being labeled a commenter?

Not inherently, but "commenter" can sometimes imply a lack of expertise compared to "commentator."

Oct 25, 2023

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About Author

Written by

Sumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.

Edited by

Huma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.