Convention
UK /["/kənˈvenʃn/"]/US /["/kənˈvenʃn/"]/
Definition
the way in which something is done that most people in a society expect and consider to be polite or the right way to do it
In simple words: A large meeting or event where people with the same interests come together.
Examples
- The annual writers' convention attracted attendees from all over the country.
- They signed the peace convention to end the conflict between the two nations.
- Wearing suits to the office is a convention rather than a strict rule.
- The comic book convention featured many famous artists and exclusive merchandise.
- According to international convention, diplomats have certain legal protections.
- The convention of shaking hands after a meeting is common in many cultures.
- At the technology convention, new gadgets were demonstrated to the public.
- The Geneva Convention established rules about the treatment of prisoners of war.
Usage notes
Use 'convention' for formal gatherings, especially in business, politics, or specific areas of interest. Avoid using it in casual contexts.
Grammar pattern
noun + convention
Memory hint
Think of a 'convention' as a 'convening' of people.
Collocations
- accepted
- established
- long-standing
- set
- adhere to
- conform to
- follow
- demand something
- dictate something
- according to convention
- by convention
- a break with convention
- a matter of convention
- annual
- international
- national
- have
- hold
- host
- take place
- centre/center
- hall
- floor
- at a/the convention
- delegates to a convention
- global
- international
- European
- adopt
- ratify
- sign
- apply
- govern something
- establish something
- under a/the convention
- convention against
- convention between
- a breach of a convention
- accepted
- established
- long-standing
- set
- adhere to
- conform to
- follow
- demand something
- dictate something
- according to convention
- by convention
- a break with convention
- a matter of convention
Synonyms
- conference
Antonyms
- disorder
- chaos
- unconventionality
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'convention' vs 'conventional'
- Using 'convention' in the wrong plural form (conventions) when referring to multiple events
- Mistaking 'convention' for 'conference' as being interchangeable in all contexts