What's the Difference Between American Football and Soccer? Why Is American Football Called 'Football'?
The confusion surrounding the terminology of football is significant, particularly in the United States, where the term 'football' can refer to two distinct sports: American football and association football, commonly known as soccer. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between these sports and explain why American football is called simply 'football' here.
The Differences Between American Football and Soccer
While both sports feature teams of eleven players and the inclusion of a fullback, the similarities largely end there. American football and soccer are fundamentally different in their gameplay, rules, and equipment used.
Gameplay Differences: American Football: A fast-paced, physical sport where the objective is to advance the ball down the field by running with it or throwing it. The American football is a prolate spheroid shape and can be kicked to score, but it is primarily played through hand-to-hand possession and blocking. Soccer: Known as football in most parts of the world, soccer is a continuous, non-stop game where the goal is to score points by kicking the ball into the opposing team's net. There is no hand-to-hand possession, and the ball is spherical in shape.
Why Is American Football Called 'Football'?
The term 'football' in the United States often refers to the sport of American football, primarily because 'association football' (soccer) would be a mouthful for casual conversation. Here’s a closer look at the historical and linguistic reasons behind this:
Historical Context:
During the early history of organized sports in the U.S., different codes of football were played, including American football and soccer. As the American football code gained popularity, it became the predominant form of football in the country. The term 'soccer' began to be used to distinguish the two sports, particularly in the context of the first American Soccer League (ASL) formed in 1915. By using 'soccer,' the term 'football' became synonymous with American football, reflecting its dominance in the U.S. market.
Linguistic Convenience:
The term 'soccer' is derived from the abbreviated form of 'association football,' but it became less common in the U.S. for several reasons. First, the abbreviation was too long to be practical in everyday language. Second, non-sports experts often found the term confusing in the context of American cultural references to football. Thus, 'football' was a more succinct and less ambiguous term, allowing for easier communication and better brand recognition.
Global Football Terminology:
It's important to remember that 'football' in various parts of the world refers to association football (soccer). However, while many countries have adopted unique terms to differentiate the two sports, the U.S. and some other English-speaking nations have chosen to simplify the distinction with a single term for both types of football.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between American football and soccer is essential for comprehending the cultural nuances of these sports in the United States. The term 'football' in the U.S. is primarily associated with American football due to its historical dominance and linguistic convenience. For sports enthusiasts and travelers, recognizing the differences and terminology can enhance the appreciation and enjoyment of both sports.