C1noun5K

Commentator

UK /["/ˈkɒmənteɪtə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːmənteɪtər/"]/

Definition

a person who describes an event while it is happening, especially on television or radio

In simple words: A person who talks about an event as it happens, usually on TV or radio.

Examples

  • a **television/sports commentator**
  • He's one of the great sports commentators of our time.
  • She's a political commentator for the BBC.
  • Political commentators are predicting that the minister will have to resign.
  • a commentator on current affairs
  • He is best known as a commentator on culture and the arts.

Usage notes

Used in news or sports contexts; not suitable for informal conversations. Avoid in casual settings unless discussing media.

Grammar pattern

commentator + on + event

Memory hint

Think of 'comment' + 'ator' as the one who comments.

Collocations

  • sports
  • basketball
  • cricket
  • influential
  • independent
  • foreign
  • commentator on

Synonyms

  • announcer
  • broadcaster
  • narrator
  • analyst
  • reporter

Antonyms

  • spectator
  • audience
  • listener
  • viewer

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'comment' as a noun or verb.
  • Using 'commentator' to refer to a general speaker instead of a specific role.
  • Mixing up with 'commentary', which refers to the act or script rather than the person.