1. Long-Standing Admiration: The person has been following, enjoying, or supporting the subject of their fandom for a considerable amount of time. This can be related to:
* Music: "I've been a fan of their music since their first album came out."
* Movies/TV Shows: "I've been a fan of this show for years."
* Sports: "I've been a fan of this team since I was a kid."
* Authors/Artists: "I've been a fan of their work for a long time."
* Celebrities: "I've been a fan of this actor since their early movies."
2. Knowledge and Passion: Being a fan often means having a good understanding and deep passion for the subject of their fandom. This can include:
* Following their career: Staying up-to-date on their latest projects, achievements, and news.
* Collecting memorabilia: Having souvenirs, posters, or merchandise related to the subject of their fandom.
* Participating in fan communities: Engaging in discussions and sharing their love for the subject with others.
3. Loyalty and Dedication: "Been a fan" often implies a strong loyalty and commitment to the subject of their fandom. They are likely to continue supporting and following them regardless of their ups and downs.
In essence, "been a fan" means to have been a consistent and devoted supporter of something or someone for a considerable period.