fanatic/maniac/fan/enthusiast

[angliholic]

But as a coffee fanatic, I firmly believe that caffeine is good for everyone.


Hi,
Could I replace "fanatic" in the above with "maniac/fan/enthusiast" without making a change in meaning? Thanks.

 

[buggles]

You could, but you would introduce subtle differences in meaning.
A coffee fanatic not only loves coffee, but seeks actively to convert others to his way of thinking.
A coffee maniac is just crazy about coffee.
A coffee fan likes coffee, but isn't necessarily crazy about it.
A coffee enthusiast likes coffee a lot and might try to influence other people's views.