noun
Common
proceedings
pruh-SEED-ihngz
Proceedings (noun) means the formal course of action in a lawsuit or official process. Example: “She was warned that legal proceedings would follow if she missed another payment.”
noun
1
The formal course of action in a lawsuit or official process.
"She was warned that legal proceedings would follow if she missed another payment."
"The proceedings against the company were delayed while both sides collected more evidence."
"He began divorce proceedings after months of discussion with his lawyer."
2
The official published record of what was said or done at a meeting or society.
"The society printed the proceedings of its annual meeting."
"You can find the full proceedings of the conference in the university library."
"The proceedings include every paper that was presented at the meeting."
How to use proceedings
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe formal steps of a legal case, or the official written record of a meeting.
Common pairings
legal proceedings
divorce proceedings
criminal proceedings
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Frequently asked questions
What does “proceedings” mean?
The word “proceedings” means the formal course of action in a lawsuit or official process. In plain terms, the formal steps of a legal case, or the official written record of a meeting.
How do you pronounce “proceedings”?
“Proceedings” is pronounced pruh-SEED-ihngz (/pɹəˈsiːd.ɪŋz/ in IPA).
How do you use “proceedings” in a sentence?
Here is “proceedings” used in a sentence: “She was warned that legal proceedings would follow if she missed another payment.”
What part of speech is “proceedings”?
“Proceedings” is a noun.
Is “proceedings” a common word?
“Proceedings” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “proceedings” have?
“Proceedings” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the formal course of action in a lawsuit or official process.
What is the difference between "proceedings" and "procedures"?
"Proceedings" are the events or formal actions that make up a process, such as a court case or a meeting. "Procedures" are the set methods or steps for doing something; you follow procedures, but you attend or record proceedings.
Is "proceedings" singular or plural?
"Proceedings" is used in the plural and takes a plural verb, as in "the proceedings were adjourned." There is no common singular form for the sense of a formal course of action or an official published record.
What is the difference between "legal proceedings" and a "lawsuit"?
"Legal proceedings" is a broad term for any formal activity conducted in a court or before a legal authority, and it can include hearings, trials, and appeals. A "lawsuit" is one specific type of legal proceeding brought by one party against another.
What are "conference proceedings"?
"Conference proceedings" are the official published collection of papers and records presented at an academic or professional meeting. This draws on the sense of "proceedings" meaning the official record of what was said or done.
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