Here are some synonyms of "meeting" and an analysis of their meanings and usages:
1. Conference
- Meaning: A "conference" is a formal gathering of people with a shared interest or profession. It usually involves multiple sessions, presentations, and discussions over a period of time. For example, an academic conference might bring together scholars from around the world to present and discuss the latest research in a particular field. It's more organized and often has a specific theme or agenda.
- Usage: Commonly used in professional, academic, and business contexts. For example, "The international business conference attracted executives from various industries."
2. Convention
- Meaning: A "convention" is also a large - scale formal meeting. It typically has a set of established rules, procedures, and traditions. Conventions are often held regularly and involve representatives from different groups or organizations. For example, a political convention is a gathering where a political party nominates its candidates and formulates its platform. It emphasizes the collective and institutional nature of the gathering.
- Usage: Used in contexts such as politics, trade associations, and fan - based organizations. For example, "The annual comic - book convention draws thousands of fans and industry professionals."
3. Assembly
- Meaning: An "assembly" refers to a group of people coming together for a particular purpose. It can be more general and might imply a gathering for a specific task, such as an assembly of workers to discuss a new project plan. It's a more basic term for a meeting and doesn't carry the same formality as "conference" or "convention."
- Usage: Can be used in a wide range of settings, from school assemblies to workplace meetings. For example, "The school assembly was held to announce the new semester's schedule."
4. Symposium
- Meaning: A "symposium" is a meeting where experts or interested parties discuss a particular subject. It often involves in - depth exchanges of ideas and perspectives. For example, a scientific symposium might focus on a cutting - edge research topic and include panel discussions and question - and - answer sessions. It emphasizes the intellectual and collaborative nature of the discussion.
- Usage: Used mainly in academic and professional fields where in - depth discussion of a topic is desired. For example, "The medical symposium explored new treatment methods for a rare disease."