Exploring the Terminology of Fan Fiction: ‘Fanfic’ vs ‘Fan Fiction’

When engaging in discussions about fan fiction, you may encounter various terms such as ‘fanfic’, ‘fan fiction’, ‘OTP’, and ‘One True Pairing’. These terms are often used interchangeably, but the nuances in their usage can provide insights into the fan fiction community and its culture. This article aims to clarify the differences and similarities between these terms, focusing on the most commonly encountered ones, 'fanfic' and 'fan fiction'.

The Fundamental Equivalence

The terms 'fanfic' and 'fan fiction' are fundamentally the same. Both refer to fictional stories created by fans based on existing books, movies, TV shows, or games. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference, context, and the intended audience.

Usage and Formality

Formal Usage: ‘Fan fiction’ is the official and more formal term. It is often used in academic, publishing, and professional settings. For instance, when writing essays, publishing articles, or discussing fan fiction in a formal setting, 'fan fiction' is the preferred term. It conveys the seriousness and respect for the work being discussed.

Informal Usage: 'Fanfic' is a shortened version of 'fan fiction'. It is more commonly used in online communities, social media, and personal conversations. Due to its brevity, 'fanfic' is more efficient for quick discussions and informal settings. It can also add a lighter, more casual tone to the conversation.

The Cultural Context: Fan Fiction in Online Communities

Within the fan fiction community, 'fanfic' is widely used due to its simplicity. Fans often employ shorthand and slang to facilitate quick and efficient communication. For example, a fan might ask in a forum, 'Anyone know of a good fanfic with X and Y characters?', where 'fanfic' is the preferred term.

Outside the community, using 'fan fiction' can convey a sense of authority or expertise, making it more suitable for academic or professional discussions. This distinction in usage can be seen as a reflection of the dynamics within the fan fiction community and its relationship with the broader world.

Example Contexts

Lets consider a few examples to illustrate the situations in which each term might be preferable:

Academic Writing: If you are writing a scholarly article on the impact of fan fiction on contemporary literature, the term 'fan fiction' is more appropriate due to its formal tone and respect for the genre. Online Discussion Forums: In a discussion thread about favorite fan fiction stories, a fan might casually ask, 'Anyone know of a good OTP about Y and Z?', where 'OTP' and 'fanfic' are used to engage in a relaxed, community-oriented conversation. Book Reviews: In a book review, a critic might mention, 'this narrative also appears in a fan fiction collection, but with a different outcome,' using 'fan fiction' to maintain the formal tone appropriate for a professional critique.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both 'fanfic' and 'fan fiction' refer to the same concept: fictional stories created by fans based on existing works. The choice between the two terms is often influenced by the context and the intended audience, with 'fan fiction' being more formal and 'fanfic' being more informal and casual. Understanding this subtle difference can help in engaging with the fan fiction community effectively and appropriately.