Footballer: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used in British English and other forms of English outside of North America to refer to someone who plays football (known as soccer in the United States).

• The young footballer displayed excellent skills in his debut match.
• Many aspiring footballers dream of playing in the Premier League.

This term is primarily used in North American English to refer to someone who plays association football. It helps differentiate from American football.

• The soccer player received a scholarship to play at a major university.
• He's one of the top soccer players in the country.

This term is more neutral and can refer to someone who plays either American football or association football depending on the context, making it more versatile.

• The football player scored a hat trick in the final game.
• She is a talented football player and has been scouted by several colleges.