Key Difference – Host vs Anchor
Host and anchor are two terms often used in broadcasting. Though these two terms are frequently used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between host and anchor in terms of meaning and usage. The term host refers to a presenter of a television or radio program, while anchor also refers to a newsreader, but this usage is limited to American English. This is the key difference between host and anchor.
Who is a Host?
The noun host refers to a person who receives or entertains other people as guests. For example, if you organize a party at your home, then you are the host of the party. Host can also refer to a place, organization or person that holds an event to which others are invited as guests.
In the field of mass communication and broadcasting, host refers to a presenter of a television or radio program. Programs like celebrity interviews, talk shows, political discussions, etc. have hosts.
The word host can also be used as a verb. The verb host also refers to acting as a host for a party or a television/radio program.
Who is an Anchor?
The noun anchor refers to a heavy object attached to a cable or chain and used to moor a ship to the sea bottom. But anchor is sometimes also used to refer to a person. When it is used to describe a person, it can have two meanings:
– A person who provides stability or confidence in an otherwise uncertain situation
– An anchorman or anchorwoman
It is this second meaning that is relevant to the difference between host and anchor since many people tend to use these two words interchangeably.
An anchorman or anchorwoman, also known as anchor, is a person who announces or presents a TV or radio program. It is also important to know that the term anchor is synonymous with presenter, newsreader, or announcer of a show in American English. This meaning is not very common in British English. The American Heritage dictionary defines anchor as “a man who narrates or coordinates a newscast in which several correspondents give reports”.
What is the difference between Host and Anchor?
Definition:
Host: Host is a presenter of a television or radio program.
Anchor: Anchor is a person who presents and coordinates a live television or radio program involving other contributors.
Usage:
Host: This term is commonly used to refer to TV presenters.
Anchor: This term is mainly used in American English.
Alternative Meanings:
Host: Host refers to a person who receives or entertains other people as guests.
Anchor: Anchor can refer to a person who provides stability or confidence in an otherwise uncertain situation.
Key Takeaways
- Host refers to a presenter of a television or radio program, while anchor refers to a newsreader, but this usage is limited to American English.
- In the field of mass communication and broadcasting, host refers to a presenter of a television or radio program, while anchor refers to a person who presents and coordinates a live television or radio program involving other contributors.
- The term host is commonly used to refer to TV presenters, whereas the term anchor is mainly used in American English.
