A reunion is a meaningful gathering that brings people together to renew old bonds.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A planned meeting after a long separation.
- Common for families and old school friends.
- A time for catching up and sharing memories.
Overview
The word 'reunion' is derived from the act of 'uniting again.' It specifically refers to the event where members of a group—such as a family, a graduating class, or a military unit—come together after a long time apart. It carries a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection.
Usage Patterns
You typically use 'reunion' with verbs like 'attend,' 'organize,' or 'host.' For example, 'We are hosting a family reunion this summer.' It is often preceded by a modifier that specifies the group, such as 'high school reunion' or 'class reunion.'
Common Contexts
The most common context is social. High school and university reunions are milestone events in many cultures, often occurring on 10, 20, or 50-year anniversaries. Family reunions are also popular, often serving as a way to maintain genealogical ties across generations. In a professional context, it may refer to former colleagues meeting to discuss old times.
Similar Words Comparison: 'Gathering' is a broad term for any group meeting, whereas 'reunion' implies that the participants have a pre-existing, long-term bond and have been separated for a duration. 'Party' is focused on celebration, while 'reunion' is focused on the act of reconvening after an absence.
Examples
We are having a family reunion next month.
everydayWe are having a family reunion next month.
The alumni association announced the date for the 20-year reunion.
formalThe alumni association announced the date for the 20-year reunion.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
high school reunion
high school reunion
Often Confused With
A union is a state of being joined together or a specific group like a labor union. It does not imply a reunion of people who were separated.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral in register but often carries an emotional connotation. It is almost exclusively used for people, not for objects or abstract concepts. Ensure you include the group type (family, class) to be clear.
Common Mistakes
People sometimes use 'reunion' for any party, which is incorrect. Another error is omitting the 're-' prefix, which changes the meaning entirely. It is also not used for daily or weekly meetings.
Tips
Use specific modifiers for clarity
Always specify the type of reunion, such as 'family reunion' or 'class reunion,' to give the listener context about who is meeting.
Don't confuse with 'union'
A 'union' is an act of joining or a labor organization. A 'reunion' is specifically about meeting again after being apart.
The importance of milestones
In many Western cultures, reunions are often scheduled around significant anniversaries, like the 10th or 25th anniversary of graduation.
Word Origin
The word comes from the French 'réunion,' based on the Latin 're-' (again) and 'unire' (to unite). It entered English in the 17th century.
Cultural Context
Reunions are significant social rituals that help people maintain identity and connection to their past. They are deeply embedded in school and family cultures worldwide.
Memory Tip
Think of the prefix 're-' as meaning 'again' and 'union' as 'coming together.' So, a reunion is simply coming together again.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsWhile usually intended to be positive, reunions can sometimes be stressful or awkward. They often involve complex social dynamics and reflecting on how much time has passed.
No, the word implies a significant period of separation. It is not used for frequent or casual meetings.
A party is a general social event for fun, while a reunion is specifically about bringing back together people who were once part of the same group.
Test Yourself
We are planning a big family ___ for the summer holidays.
The context of family gathering after time implies a reunion.
Score: /1
Summary
A reunion is a meaningful gathering that brings people together to renew old bonds.
- A planned meeting after a long separation.
- Common for families and old school friends.
- A time for catching up and sharing memories.
Use specific modifiers for clarity
Always specify the type of reunion, such as 'family reunion' or 'class reunion,' to give the listener context about who is meeting.
Don't confuse with 'union'
A 'union' is an act of joining or a labor organization. A 'reunion' is specifically about meeting again after being apart.
The importance of milestones
In many Western cultures, reunions are often scheduled around significant anniversaries, like the 10th or 25th anniversary of graduation.
Examples
2 of 2We are having a family reunion next month.
We are having a family reunion next month.
The alumni association announced the date for the 20-year reunion.
The alumni association announced the date for the 20-year reunion.
Quick Quiz
My cousins and I are planning a big family _______ for this summer.
Correct!
The correct answer is: reunion
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