Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒmɛnt/

Definitions

• 1. (noun) A verbal or written remark expressing an opinion or reaction.
• 2. (noun) An explanation or observation about something.
• 3. (verb) To express an opinion or give a remark about something.

Usage Examples

• She made a comment on the latest news article.
• He commented on her excellent performance in the play.
• The teacher asked the students to comment on the reading assignment.

Etymology

From Old French "comun" (common, to share), from Latin "communis," indicating something shared. The word "comment" evolved to mean a remark made about something shared.

Synonyms

• Remark
• Observation
• Statement
• Opinion
• Input

Antonyms

• Silence
• Quiet
• Reticence

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, the pronunciation often stresses the first syllable (ˈkɒmɛnt), whereas in British English, the stress might slightly shift toward the second syllable, depending on the context.

Historical Usage

The word "comment" was first used in the 14th century to mean a written or spoken remark about something. In early usage, it often referred to the act of explaining or interpreting texts, particularly religious or scholarly ones.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, giving a comment or feedback is highly formalized, especially in educational or professional settings. In other contexts, comments are used to express informal opinions, such as on social media or during casual conversations.

More Information

The word "comment" is an essential part of communication, whether formal or informal. Comments can be constructive or critical, depending on the situation. Understanding the context and tone of a comment is vital, especially in discussions on social media platforms, where comments are often instantaneous and can have widespread effects.