noun
Common
commentary
KOM-uhn-tree
Commentary (noun) means a set of explanatory notes or opinions on a text, event, or situation. Example: “The book includes a detailed commentary on each chapter of the ancient text.”
noun
1
A set of explanatory notes or opinions on a text, event, or situation.
"The book includes a detailed commentary on each chapter of the ancient text."
"Her written commentary on the report pointed out several weak arguments."
"The professor's commentary on the poem helped clarify its meaning."
2
A live spoken description of an event, especially a sports broadcast.
"We listened to the football commentary while watching the match."
"We listened to the radio commentary while driving home from the cricket ground."
"The commentary was so lively that even non-fans found the game exciting."
"The commentary during the match was full of colorful metaphors."
How to use commentary
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishExplanation or discussion about something, or the live narration of a broadcast event.
Common pairings
running commentary
match commentary
social commentary
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Word forms
- Plural
- commentaries
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The book includes a detailed _____ on each chapter of the ancient text.
Etymology
From Latin commentarius ("notebook, memorandum"), related to "comment."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for commentary
See all rhymes for commentary →Frequently asked questions
What does “commentary” mean?
The word “commentary” means a set of explanatory notes or opinions on a text, event, or situation. In plain terms, explanation or discussion about something, or the live narration of a broadcast event.
How do you pronounce “commentary”?
“Commentary” is pronounced KOM-uhn-tree (/ˈkɑ.mənˌtɛ.ɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “commentary” in a sentence?
Here is “commentary” used in a sentence: “The professor's commentary on the poem helped clarify its meaning.”
What part of speech is “commentary”?
“Commentary” is a noun.
Where does the word “commentary” come from?
The word “commentary” comes from Latin. From Latin commentarius ("notebook, memorandum"), related to "comment.".
Is “commentary” a common word?
“Commentary” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “commentary” have?
“Commentary” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a set of explanatory notes or opinions on a text, event, or situation.
What is the difference between commentary and analysis?
Commentary is a set of explanatory notes or opinions offered on a text, event, or situation, and it can be delivered as events unfold. Analysis is a more detailed, systematic breakdown that examines how or why something works, so analysis tends to be deeper and more structured.
What is the difference between commentary and criticism?
Commentary explains, remarks on, or gives an opinion about something. Criticism specifically evaluates merits and faults, so criticism makes a judgment while commentary may simply describe or interpret.
What is 'running commentary'?
Running commentary is a continuous spoken description of an event as it happens, such as a sports broadcaster describing a match play by play. It matches the sense of commentary as a live spoken account.
What is the plural of commentary?
The plural of commentary is 'commentaries.' It is used for multiple sets of notes or opinions, as in 'biblical commentaries.'
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