Reunion: Definition and Synonyms
Reunion – Definition and Part of Speech
The term “reunion” functions primarily as a noun and refers to an occasion when former members or associates of a group gather together again, often for social purposes. It typically involves reconnecting with people from past experiences such as school, work, or friendship. The concept extends beyond mere meetings to signify a revival of camaraderie and shared memories.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
Below is a table of primary synonyms for “reunion,” each accompanied by its brief definition, an example sentence, and the typical style or register in which it is used:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gathering | A more general term for bringing people together. May not imply past association. | “The community planned a gathering at the local park.” | Casual/Neutral |
| Assembly | Often used in formal contexts; emphasizes order or structure. | “An annual assembly of alumni was held at the university.” | Formal/Academic |
| Rendezvous | Suggests a more private, often romantic meeting, but can refer to any planned encounter. | “They arranged a rendezvous for old friends in Paris.” | Literary/Informal |
| Convocation | Implies an official gathering, usually larger and structured, such as academic events. | “The university held a convocation for graduating students.” | Formal/Academic |
| Meet-up | Informal term used particularly within online or social contexts for organizing gatherings. | “We found some old classmates at the weekly meet-up.” | Casual/Online |
Usage Notes
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Gathering can be used in both casual and slightly formal contexts but lacks the specific connotation of past association inherent to “reunion.”
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Assembly is best suited for structured or official settings, such as professional conferences or academic ceremonies.
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Rendezvous, with its slightly romantic undertones, fits well in informal writing where a sense of adventure or secrecy might be implied.
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Convocation is typically reserved for formal events involving significant announcements or recognitions, making it appropriate for institutional contexts.
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Meet-up works best when referencing gatherings organized through digital platforms, like social media groups or apps, and carries a contemporary vibe.
Common Pitfalls
A common mistake in using synonyms for “reunion” involves overlooking the context or formality of the event. For instance:
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Using convocation for casual meetings may come off as overly formal.
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Employing rendezvous in official announcements could cause confusion due to its informal, sometimes romantic connotation.
Additionally, while all these synonyms generally imply bringing people together, nuances like structure (assembly), formality (convocation), and spontaneity or informality (meet-up) can make choosing the wrong synonym awkward.
Final Recap
In summary, while “reunion” captures a specific type of gathering characterized by past association and camaraderie, its synonyms offer various shades of meaning:
- Gathering is versatile but non-specific.
- Assembly denotes structure or order.
- Rendezvous often implies informality or romance.
- Convocation suggests official, formal events.
- Meet-up indicates a modern, informal gathering.
Encourage yourself to practice using these synonyms in different contexts. Try writing sentences for each or incorporating them into conversations to better grasp their nuances and appropriate applications. This approach will enhance both your vocabulary and understanding of the subtleties in language usage.