A2noun2K

Conference

UK /["/ˈkɒnfərəns/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːnfərəns/"]/

Definition

a large official meeting, usually lasting for a few days, at which people with the same work or interests come together to discuss their views

In simple words: A large meeting where many people gather to discuss a specific topic.

Examples

  • The annual conference held in September attracted many professionals from different industries.
  • She attended a conference last week to learn about the latest technologies.
  • After the conference, we had a chance to network with other attendees.
  • The student conference was a great opportunity for young researchers to present their work.
  • Please make sure to register for the conference before the deadline.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and work contexts, often related to business, education, or specific fields. Less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

conference + noun (topic)

Memory hint

Imagine a large room full of people, all in suits, sitting in rows for a big talk.

Collocations

  • international
  • national
  • regional
  • series
  • attend
  • go to
  • hold
  • meet
  • take place
  • begin
  • centre/​center
  • facilities
  • venue
  • at a/​the conference
  • in conference with
  • conference about
  • international
  • national
  • regional
  • series
  • attend
  • go to
  • hold
  • meet
  • take place
  • begin
  • centre/​center
  • facilities
  • venue
  • at a/​the conference
  • in conference with
  • conference about

Synonyms

  • meeting
  • symposium
  • convention
  • summit
  • forum

Antonyms

  • disagreement
  • dispersal

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'consensus' which refers to a general agreement.
  • Using it in singular when the context implies multiple meetings.
  • Mixing up with 'seminar', which is usually smaller and more focused.