When it comes to sports, few topics generate as much confusion or debate as the terminology surrounding football. While the rest of the world refers to the beautiful game as football, Americans call it soccer. But why is there this linguistic divide, and how did “soccer” come to dominate the American lexicon? Let’s dive into the origins, cultural nuances, and ongoing global debates about what Americans call British football.
A Brief History of “Football” vs. “Soccer”
1. The Origins of Football
The term “football” originally described games played on foot rather than on horseback. By the 19th century, various forms of football had emerged in Britain, including association football (soccer) and rugby football. The word “football” in Britain became synonymous with association football as the sport grew in popularity.
2. The Birth of “Soccer”
The term “soccer” originated in England as a slang abbreviation of association football. British university students in the 1800s often added the suffix “-er” to words for informal nicknames. “Rugger” referred to rugby football, and “soccer” was coined for association football. This term was widely used in England for decades before falling out of favor in the 20th century.
3. Adoption in America
When football made its way to the United States, it clashed with the already popular American football. To avoid confusion, Americans adopted the term “soccer” to refer to association football, distinguishing it from their own gridiron game.
Why Americans Still Use “Soccer”
1. The Dominance of American Football
In the U.S., football overwhelmingly refers to gridiron football, governed by leagues like the NFL (National Football League). The popularity of American football has left little room for the term “football” to apply to anything else.
2. Cultural Legacy
The use of “soccer” in America persists due to historical and cultural contexts. Early American leagues and organizations, such as the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), solidified the term in the nation’s sports vocabulary.
3. Avoiding Confusion
With both sports coexisting in the U.S., using “soccer” ensures clarity. For Americans, “football” conjures images of touchdowns, helmets, and Super Bowl Sundays, while “soccer” evokes international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup.
How the Term “Soccer” is Viewed Globally
1. British Perceptions
Ironically, while the British coined the term “soccer,” they now view it as an Americanism. In the UK, calling the sport “soccer” is often met with raised eyebrows or even mockery.
2. Global Football Culture
Outside the U.S., the term “football” reigns supreme. In countries like Brazil, Germany, and Spain, it’s the default term, reflecting the sport’s global unity under organizations like FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association).
3. Modern Shifts
Interestingly, as soccer grows in popularity in the U.S., some fans and commentators have begun embracing the term “football” to align with international norms.
Key Differences Between American Football and Soccer
| Aspect | American Football | Soccer (Football) |
|---|---|---|
| Field Dimensions | 120 yards x 53.3 yards | 100–130 yards x 50–100 yards |
| Duration | 4 quarters of 15 minutes | 2 halves of 45 minutes |
| Players | 11 players per team | 11 players per team |
| Scoring | Touchdowns (6 points), field goals (3 points) | Goals (1 point each) |
| Gameplay | Highly structured with set plays | Continuous and free-flowing |
The Growing Popularity of Soccer in the U.S.
1. The Rise of Major League Soccer (MLS)
Founded in 1993, Major League Soccer (MLS) has been instrumental in growing soccer’s fanbase in the U.S. Teams like LA Galaxy and Inter Miami CF, fueled by star players, have brought international attention to American soccer.
2. World Cup Fever
The FIFA World Cup, hosted by the U.S. in 1994 and co-hosted with Canada and Mexico in 2026, has significantly boosted soccer’s popularity among Americans.
3. Youth Soccer Boom
Soccer is one of the most popular youth sports in the U.S., with millions of children participating in local leagues.
Common Misconceptions About “Soccer”
1. “Soccer” is Un-American
Despite its association with the U.S., “soccer” is rooted in British history. It’s a linguistic artifact rather than a uniquely American invention.
2. Americans Don’t Care About Soccer
While American football dominates, soccer has carved out a significant niche, evidenced by the popularity of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) and U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT).
3. Soccer is Inferior to Football
Soccer’s global reach and history make it one of the most beloved sports worldwide, rivaling American football in terms of passion and fan engagement.
FAQs
1. Do Americans Understand British Football Culture?
Yes, particularly among soccer enthusiasts. The popularity of the English Premier League (EPL) in the U.S. has introduced many Americans to British football traditions and rivalries.
2. Are Soccer and Football Interchangeable Terms?
In the U.S., “soccer” exclusively refers to association football, while “football” means American football. Globally, “football” generally means soccer.
3. Is Soccer Becoming More Popular Than American Football?
While soccer’s popularity is rising, American football remains the dominant sport in the U.S. However, soccer is making significant inroads, especially among younger demographics.
How to Watch British Football in America
- Streaming Services: Platforms like Peacock, ESPN+, and Paramount+ broadcast major leagues.
- Cable Networks: NBC Sports and FOX Sports regularly air English Premier League and Champions League matches.
- Local Bars: Many sports bars in the U.S. host live viewings of British football matches.
Conclusion
So, what do Americans call British football? The answer is soccer, a term rooted in British origins but adopted and popularized in the U.S. While the terminology might differ, the love for the game unites fans across continents. Whether you call it soccer or football, there’s no denying the sport’s power to bring people together.
Call to Action
Curious to dive deeper into the world of soccer/football? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights into global sports culture.
External High-Authority Links
- FIFA Official Website: Explore global football news and events.
- MLS Official Website: Stay updated on Major League Soccer matches.
- Premier League Official Website: Follow the English Premier League.
See Also: Is AFL the Same as NFL?
