The other day I referred to myself as a man united fan and it made me feel a bit cheap. However, I think that would be how most football 'supporters' would describe my relationship with the club.. It got me thinking about the meanings behind these words and if there really is any difference...
The word fan is often use as a derogatory term for a 'supporter' that lives out of the town or city. and as a result mostly watches games on TV and does not put money directly into the hands of the club.
The term supporter is often used to described someone who is local, follows the club everywhere and buys merch/tickets.
However if you look at the definitions of the word, it's back to front.
Supporter
noun
A person who approves of and encourages a public figure, political party, policy, etc. "Labour supporters"
Fanatic
noun
A person filled with excessive and single-minded zeal, especially for an extreme religious or political cause. "religious fanatics"
Anyway, looking forward to steaming the game tonight as a Manchester United Supporter.
Fans Vs Supporters - it's back to front
posted on 22/1/20
People like Mark David Chapman are also often referred to as fans. All we can say is it’s a grey area.
posted on 22/1/20
Both are the same. A fan supports the team and a supporter is a fan.
Close the thread
posted on 22/1/20
comment by Hector (U3606)
posted 1 hour, 3 minutes ago
Could youbthriw Ultra into the mix?
The besotted, dedicated, home and away, flare sparking 90 minute song singing obsessive.
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Hmmm... I'm not sure I ever really see people describe themselves or other individuals as ultras otherwise I would. I only see ultra mentioned in the media.
posted on 22/1/20
comment by Shaun M - I can't see me loving nobody but Leeds! (U9955)
posted 1 minute ago
Both are the same. A fan supports the team and a supporter is a fan.
Close the thread
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I agree both are the same IMO but I imagine those who go to every away game may feel different. Perhaps they should be considered as ultras?
posted on 22/1/20
You don't have to live near the club or go to games to put money into the club though. Merchandise and subscriptions percentages end up with the club.
posted on 22/1/20
Dont concern yourself with what others think mate.
(Although I'd question if a person is a fan if you only ever watch on an illegal stream and never buy merchandise)
posted on 22/1/20
comment by Reddevilsdouble II (U22313)
posted 6 minutes ago
Dont concern yourself with what others think mate.
(Although I'd question if a person is a fan if you only ever watch on an illegal stream and never buy merchandise)
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Used to buy shirts and subscriptions but had to prioritise other things. The I definitely need the money more than the club atm.
posted on 22/1/20
Not bought shirts since I was a teen though tbh
posted on 22/1/20
Only a kid younger than 13 would be able to justify his obsession with how much more genuine his outward displays of attachment to a club were, as compared to everyone else.
Same also applies to any kind of religion.
posted on 22/1/20
Who didn't turn up at Old Trafford tonight, the fans or the supporters?