Convention: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
January 6, 2025

1. Convention (noun): A formal meeting or gathering of people with a common interest.
2. Convention (noun): A widely accepted way of behaving or doing something.
3. Convention (noun): An agreement or compact, especially between nations or groups.

Convention" refers to various types of gatherings, agreements, or norms that are widely followed. The term is often used in different contexts, including formal meetings, accepted social behaviors, and international agreements. This versatility makes "convention" an important word to understand and use correctly in daily language.

"Convention" Definition: What Does "Convention" Mean?

"Convention" is a term with multiple meanings. From formal assemblies to the standard ways society operates, this word serves various purposes in communication.

Definition of "Convention": Formal Gathering

The first definition of "convention" refers to a formal meeting, often involving people with shared interests, such as a professional conference or an international summit. This is one of the most common usages.

Definition of "Convention": Social Norm

The second definition points to a widely accepted behavior or practice, such as social norms or protocols that guide people in various aspects of life.

Definition of "Convention": Agreement or Treaty

Finally, "convention" can refer to an agreement between different parties, such as treaties or formal compacts. International conventions are examples of this use.

Parts of Speech

The word "convention" is typically used as a noun. It refers to both physical gatherings and abstract concepts like norms and agreements. "Convention" may appear in adjectival forms such as "conventional" to describe something following accepted standards or norms.

How to Pronounce "Convention"?

"Convention" is a three-syllable word, with the emphasis placed on the second syllable. The first part, "con-," is pronounced with a soft, short vowel sound, similar to the word "con" in "connect." The second part, "-ven-," carries the stress and is pronounced like "ven" in "event," with a clear, strong vowel sound. The final syllable, "-tion," is pronounced like "shun," which is common in words ending in "-tion." Together, the word flows smoothly, with the emphasis giving it a slightly rhythmic sound.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /kənˈvɛn.ʃən/

Synonyms of "Convention": Other Ways to Say "Convention"

There are various synonyms for "convention," each providing slightly different nuances to fit different contexts.

These include:

  • Conference
  • Assembly
  • Meeting
  • Summit
  • Tradition
  • Custom
  • Protocol
  • Accord
  • Agreement
  • Treaty

Antonyms of "Convention": Other Ways to Say "Convention"

When searching for terms that express the opposite of "convention," consider the following:

  • Disorder
  • Irregularity
  • Deviation
  • Innovation
  • Anarchy
  • Divergence
  • Rebellion
  • Unorthodoxy
  • Unconformity
  • Noncompliance

Examples of "Convention" in a Sentence

Below are ten examples of how "convention" can be used in sentences:

  1. The annual tech convention attracted industry leaders from around the world.
  2. It is a convention to remove your shoes before entering the house in some cultures.
  3. The peace convention between the two countries helped ease tensions.
  4. Breaking with social convention, she wore bright colors to the formal event.
  5. The convention on climate change resulted in a landmark agreement.
  6. By following convention, the organization ensures that their procedures are universally understood.
  7. The artist deliberately ignored convention to create something truly unique.
  8. The tech convention will feature panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.
  9. A widely accepted convention in writing is to avoid passive voice.
  10. The international convention on human rights established guidelines for fair treatment.

Frequency of Use

"Convention" is a moderately common word frequently seen in formal, legal, and academic writing. Its use has remained stable over time, with spikes in relevance during large international summits or when referring to global standards.

Variants of "Convention"

While "convention" is commonly used in its singular form, several variants exist depending on context. Here are some examples:

  1. Conventions: The plural form of "convention," referring to multiple gatherings or norms.
  2. Conventionist: A less common noun referring to someone who adheres strictly to conventions.

Related Terms to "Convention"

Several related terms often appear alongside or in discussions of "convention":

  1. Agreement
  2. Summit
  3. Gathering
  4. Custom
  5. Norm
  6. Protocol
  7. Treaty
  8. Tradition
  9. Compact
  10. Meeting

Etymology: History and Origins of "Convention"

"Convention" originates from the Latin term conventio, which means "a coming together" or "meeting." It was adopted into Middle English in the 14th century and has evolved to encompass meanings related to both formal gatherings and societal norms.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Convention"

Here are some derivatives and compounds of "convention":

  1. Conventional: Refers to something that is in line with what is generally done or believed.
  2. Conventionally: Describes an action performed according to a convention.
  3. Unconventional: The opposite of conventional, describing something that breaks from the norm.

Common Misspellings of "Convention"

Here are some common misspellings to avoid:

  1. Convetion
  2. Convenshion
  3. Convetion
  4. Conventoin
  5. Conventionn

10 Idioms Similar to "Convention"

Idioms that carry meanings similar to "convention" include:

  1. Play by the rules
  2. Go by the book
  3. Fall in line
  4. Toe the line
  5. Follow suit
  6. Stick to the script
  7. Keep in step
  8. March to the same beat
  9. Go with the flow
  10. Stay in the groove

10 Common Questions About "Convention"

Below are 10 common questions related to "convention," along with their answers:

1. What is a "convention" in politics?

A political "convention" is a large meeting where political parties nominate candidates for office or discuss party platforms.

2. What is the difference between a "convention" and a "meeting"?

While both involve gatherings, a "convention" is typically larger and more formal than a meeting.

3. How do "conventions" influence society?

"Conventions" create order by establishing standards for behavior or processes.

4. What are international "conventions"?

These are formal agreements or treaties between countries on global issues like climate change or human rights.

5. What is the purpose of social "conventions"?

They help maintain social order by guiding acceptable behaviors.

6. Are "conventions" legally binding?

Some "conventions," like international treaties, are legally binding, while others are social norms.

7. What does "breaking convention" mean?

It means acting outside of the accepted standards or norms.

8. Can "conventions" change over time?

Yes, as society evolves, so do "conventions."

9. Is a "convention" the same as a treaty?

While similar, treaties are typically more formal legal agreements, whereas "conventions" can be broader in meaning.

10. How are "conventions" formed?

They develop over time through collective social or organizational consensus.

Conclusion

"Convention" is a vital term with multiple applications, from social norms to formal agreements. Its flexibility makes it a key word in everyday communication and formal contexts. Keep using "convention" to describe gatherings, agreements, and common practices in your interactions.

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