convene - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
convene Word Meanings
- to bring people together for a meeting
- to assemble or gather
- to call for a meeting or session
convene Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
convene Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈviːn/
US
/kənˈviːn/
convene Word Etymology
con- = together + venire = to come. Origin: Latin → French → English. Imagine a group of friends coming together at a specific place to meet and discuss exciting plans.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Convene means to bring people together for a meeting, to assemble or gather, or to call for a session of discussion. The word is often used in formal contexts: a company may convene a board of directors, or a city council can convene a public hearing. The sense emphasizes purpose and setting—a specific place and time with an agenda in mind. The etymology mirrors the action: con- (together) plus venire (to come). In everyday life you can also say you will convene friends for a planning session, or that a jury was convened by the judge. Convene is generally transitive and used for organized meetings rather than casual get-togethers.
Usage Reminders
- Use convene for planned, organized meetings or sessions. Do not use for casual gatherings. It is usually transitive: convene + [a group/board/committee]. Prefer synonyms like assemble or gather for informal contexts. Pair with a clear time and place. The subject often initiates the meeting. In formal writing, keep the tone formal and precise.
Common Misconceptions
- Convene is only used in government or corporate settings; it can also refer to small meetings.
- It means to gather casually; it is interchangeable with gather.
- Convene can be used without an object (intransitive).
- It implies inviting everyone personally rather than scheduling a session.
- Convene is synonymous with convene and convening without nuance.
Thinking Differences
Convene in English feels formal and purposeful, implying a planned, agenda-driven gathering. Learners often confuse it with general gathering verbs like gather, which can be used more casually. Remember: convene emphasizes organization, a defined time/place, and an agenda.
Learning Tips
- Learn the common collocations: convene a meeting, convene a committee, convene a panel.
- Compare with assemble, gather, summon to choose nuance.
- Practice with formal contexts (boards, councils).
- Always include time and place when using convene.
- Use passive voice if the subject is the organizer or institution.
- Read formal documents to see authentic usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'convene' mean?
A.Begin a conversation
B.Come together for a meeting
C.Complete a task
D.Cancel an event
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'convene' used correctly?
A.She convene the book club every month.
B.The family decided to convene for Thanksgiving dinner.
C.He convene his homework before the deadline.
D.They convene the party due to bad weather.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'convene'?
A.Unite
B.Disperse
C.Disagree
D.Avoid
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'convene'?
A.Prepare
B.Schedule
C.Organize
D.Disband
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'convene' in a real-life situation?
A.Eating lunch alone
B.Discussing a project with colleagues
C.Watching a movie at home
D.Shopping for groceries
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