commentary

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'commentary' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are providing an explanation of an event or opinion. For example, "The news report provided a commentary on the contentious political election."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"My commentary on the situation is very simple.

The Guardian

And we have a squad of 40 international correspondents around the world, from China to the Middle East, India to west Africa, together with the very best and latest news, features and commentary from our large reporting teams in the UK and the US.

The Guardian

She pulls the scene off superbly, although the audio commentary suggests it was hard work – particularly for the script supervisor.

The Guardian

Macmillan's initiative is a telling commentary on an industry hovering on the brink of crisis.

The Guardian - Books

In a linked commentary, Vincent Munster, of NIAID Rocky Mountain Laboratories in Hamilton, US, pointed out that there had not been reports of camels falling ill as a result of the virus.

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 7.13pm AEST10:13 If you read my longer blog post from earlier today (thanks for that, given it contained a Dr Hook anecdote).. you'll know that my commentary this evening is entirely partial.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

If the Sky commentary was shown on a live chat box on the Sky News homepage, that would be fine.

The Guardian - Opinion

Which of those two was the feminist website Jezebel doing when it decided to republish Vice's pictures, alongside outraged commentary?

The Guardian - Opinion

Sir Ian Botham, who had presented Kerrigan with his cap before the start of play, even suggested in his commentary for Sky that the 24-year-old had been afflicted by the yips, the condition that has wrecked the careers of several left-arm spinners in the past.

The Guardian - Sport

Stories that should be covered are not, and readers end up being kept in ignorance about important aspects of their country, with the prejudices of the cliques in control of the media – which go beyond race to class and gender too – held up as informed commentary.

The Guardian - Opinion

Peston's hair has acquired its own Twitter account and attracted approving commentary in Fleet Street's fashion pages (in this paper, Imogen Fox described his new look as "Mikhail Baryshnikov circa White Nights meets the autumn/winter 2015 Raf Simons catwalk") and comparisons with everyone from Hugh Grant to Tim Burgess of the Charlatans.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commentary" to provide additional insight or context to an event, situation, or piece of work. It's most effective when offering unique perspectives or analyses.

Common error

Avoid using "commentary" excessively without providing factual basis or objective analysis. Ensure your "commentary" is well-reasoned and supported by evidence to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "commentary" is as a noun, referring to a set of explanatory or critical notes on a text or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is correct and frequently used. It often provides additional context or interpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commentary" functions as a noun that represents explanatory or critical analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. The term is most commonly found in News & Media, serving to provide additional insight and perspective. While typically neutral, the formality can shift based on the context. Remember to support your "commentary" with factual evidence and objective analysis to enhance credibility. Alternatives include "analysis", "interpretation", and "critical assessment".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

analysis

Focuses more on detailed examination and evaluation.

interpretation

Highlights the act of explaining the meaning of something.

critical assessment

Emphasizes an evaluation that may include both positive and negative judgments.

explanation

Provides a clearer description of the subject and its details.

exposition

Suggests a systematic and detailed explanation.

review

Implies a formal evaluation, often of a published work or performance.

observations

Focuses on noting or perceiving details and facts.

remarks

Simple expression of subjective ideas in few words.

opinion

Expresses a personal belief or judgment, which may not be based on facts.

editorial

Relates specifically to an opinion piece in a publication.

FAQs

How is "commentary" used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "commentary" provides critical analysis and interpretation of research findings, literature, or historical events. It goes beyond summarizing information to offer insights and arguments supported by evidence.

What are some alternatives to using "commentary" in a report?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "analysis", "interpretation", or "assessment" to convey a similar meaning while varying your vocabulary.

When should I use "commentary" versus "summary"?

"Summary" is a concise overview of the main points, while "commentary" involves providing opinions, analysis, and critical evaluation. Use "summary" when you need to present information briefly and "commentary" when you want to offer your perspective and insights.

How does "commentary" differ from "opinion"?

"Commentary" typically involves a more reasoned and informed perspective, often based on expertise or detailed knowledge, whereas "opinion" is a personal belief or viewpoint that may not be supported by evidence or analysis. Commentary often aims to provide a deeper understanding, while opinion simply expresses a preference or judgment.