conference
KON-fruhns
Conference (noun) means a formal meeting where people discuss ideas, present research, or negotiate on a particular topic. Example: “Teachers from across the region gathered for a two-day conference on new teaching methods.”
noun
1
A formal meeting where people discuss ideas, present research, or negotiate on a particular topic.
"Teachers from across the region gathered for a two-day conference on new teaching methods."
"She gave a talk at the annual science conference."
"World leaders met at the climate conference to negotiate new targets."
2
A group of sports teams that regularly compete against each other within a league.
"Their college competes in the western conference of the league."
"Which team finished bottom of the eastern conference this season?"
"The team topped its conference for the third year running."
How to use conference
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gathering where people meet to talk, present, or negotiate — or, in sports, a division of teams that play each other regularly.
Common pairings
press conference
video conference
attend a conference
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Word forms
- Plural
- conferences
- Third person singular
- conferences
- Past tense
- conferenced
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Teachers from across the region gathered for a two-day _____ on new teaching methods.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin cōnferentia, ultimately from Latin cōnferō, "to bring together" — related to "confer."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for conference
See all rhymes for conference →Frequently asked questions
What does “conference” mean?
The word “conference” means a formal meeting where people discuss ideas, present research, or negotiate on a particular topic. In plain terms, a gathering where people meet to talk, present, or negotiate — or, in sports, a division of teams that play each other regularly.
How do you pronounce “conference”?
“Conference” is pronounced KON-fruhns (/ˈkɑn.f(ə.)ɹəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “conference” in a sentence?
Here is “conference” used in a sentence: “She gave a talk at the annual science conference.”
What part of speech is “conference”?
“Conference” is a noun.
Where does the word “conference” come from?
The word “conference” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin cōnferentia, ultimately from Latin cōnferō, "to bring together" — related to "confer.".
Is “conference” a common word?
“Conference” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “conference” have?
“Conference” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal meeting where people discuss ideas, present research, or negotiate on a particular topic.
What is the difference between a conference and a meeting?
A meeting is any gathering to discuss business, often small and routine. A conference is larger and more formal, usually bringing many people together over one or more days to share ideas, present research or negotiate. All conferences are meetings, but a quick team catch-up would never be called a conference.
What is the difference between a conference and a convention?
The two overlap, but a conference centres on discussion, talks and presentations around a topic or field. A convention is usually larger and broader, gathering members of an organization or community, often with exhibitions and social events. A conference emphasises exchanging ideas; a convention emphasises bringing a whole group together.
What are the types of conferences?
Common types include academic conferences, where researchers present findings, and business or trade conferences focused on an industry. There are also press conferences for announcements, and video or virtual conferences held online. Political and diplomatic conferences bring parties together to negotiate. Each shares the aim of formal, organized discussion.
What is an example of a conference?
An annual medical conference where doctors present new research is a clear example, as is a technology conference where companies unveil products. A press conference held by a government minister is another. Each gathers people in a formal setting to discuss, present or announce information on a particular subject.
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