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noun B1 Intermediate Common

invitation

ihn-vih-TAY-shuhn
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Invitation (noun) means a request for someone to attend an event or take part in something. Example: “Thank you for the kind invitation, but I will be away that weekend.”

noun
1
A request for someone to attend an event or take part in something.
"Thank you for the kind invitation, but I will be away that weekend."
"They sent out wedding invitations six months in advance."
"She received an invitation to speak at the conference."

How to use invitation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA formal or friendly ask for someone to come or join in.

Common pairings
accept an invitation send an invitation invitation to a party
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Word forms

Plural
invitations
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Thank you for the kind _____, but I will be away that weekend.

Etymology

From Latin invitatio, from invitare, "to invite."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for invitation

See all rhymes for invitation →

Frequently asked questions

What does “invitation” mean?
The word “invitation” means a request for someone to attend an event or take part in something. In plain terms, a formal or friendly ask for someone to come or join in.
How do you pronounce “invitation”?
“Invitation” is pronounced ihn-vih-TAY-shuhn (/ɪn.vɪˈteɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “invitation” in a sentence?
Here is “invitation” used in a sentence: “They sent out wedding invitations six months in advance.”
What part of speech is “invitation”?
“Invitation” is a noun.
Where does the word “invitation” come from?
The word “invitation” comes from Latin. From Latin invitatio, from invitare, "to invite.".
Is “invitation” a common word?
“Invitation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between "invitation" and "invite"?
"Invitation" is the standard noun for a request to attend or take part in something. "Invite" is an informal noun with the same meaning, better suited to casual speech than to formal writing.
When should you use "invitation" instead of "invite"?
Use "invitation" in formal or written contexts, such as wedding stationery or business correspondence. "Invite" is fine in relaxed conversation, but many style guides prefer "invitation" in careful writing.
What preposition follows "invitation"?
"Invitation" is usually followed by "to," as in "an invitation to the party" or "an invitation to join." You can also give an invitation "for" a specific occasion, such as "an invitation for dinner."
What verbs are commonly used with "invitation"?
You typically "send," "receive," "accept," or "decline" an invitation. In more formal English, people also "extend" an invitation, meaning they offer one.

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