What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
commentator
Example
The soccer commentator provided expert analysis on the game. [commentator: noun]
Example
She works as a political commentator, sharing her views on current affairs. [commentator: noun]
critic
Example
The film critic gave the movie a positive review. [critic: noun]
Example
She is known for her harsh criticism of contemporary art. [criticism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Critic is more commonly used than commentator in everyday language. Critic is frequently encountered in the context of reviewing movies, books, music, and other creative works. Commentator, on the other hand, is more commonly associated with sports or news broadcasting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between commentator and critic?
Both commentator and critic can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, commentator is often associated with a more formal tone when used in the context of news or political analysis, while critic can be used in a broader range of formality levels, from casual conversations to professional reviews.
