What does commentating mean?
"Commentating" refers to the activity of delivering spoken commentary, most commonly the live narration and analysis of sporting events on radio or television. A commentator describes the action as it unfolds, offering context, colour, and expert insight to audiences watching or listening from afar. The word derives from the verb "commentate," itself formed from the noun "commentator" in the late eighteenth century. Though occasionally criticised by language purists who regard "comment" as sufficient, "commentate" and its present participle are firmly established in broadcasting circles, particularly in British English. Beyond sport, commentating can extend to political events, ceremonies, and other live occasions where real-time description adds value for the audience. The term carries connotations of expertise and immediacy: a skilled commentator must speak fluently under pressure, translating fast-moving events into coherent narrative. For anyone interested in media, sport, or public speaking, "commentating" captures a distinctive professional craft that blends knowledge, quick thinking, and an engaging voice.
To provide spoken commentary on an event, especially narrating and analysing a live event such as a sports match for broadcast.
"She was commentating on the Wimbledon finals throughout the fortnight."
Usually followed by "on": "commentating on the election results." Strongly associated with British sports broadcasting.
The profession or activity of providing such spoken commentary.
"He moved into commentating after his playing career ended."
British broadcasters famously prefer to 'commentate' rather than simply 'comment' — so much so that the verb was coined specifically for sports announcers in the 18th century and remains a beloved broadcasting term today.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of commentating
"Commentating" is the present participle of "commentate," a verb that originated in eighteenth-century England as a back-formation from "commentator." The noun "commentator" derives from Latin "commentari" (to ponder or reflect), which also gives us "comment" and "commentary." The verb gained prominence through its adoption by sports broadcasters describing matches for radio listeners, cementing its association with live narration.
Related word forms
How commentating is actually used
"Commentate" arose as a back-formation from "commentator" and is especially associated with British English and sports broadcasting. Some purists consider it redundant next to "comment," but "commentating" is now fully established in broadcasting usage. It typically appears with "on" — e.g., "commentating on the match."
Easily confused with commentating
Commemorating means honouring the memory of someone or something, while commentating means providing live spoken commentary on an event.