gathering
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gathering
A planned or spontaneous meeting of several people, often serving a specific purpose, such as a discussion, celebration, or exchange. It can be formal or informal.
Die jährliche Zusammenkunft der Vereinsmitglieder findet nächsten Samstag statt.
The annual gathering of the club members will take place next Saturday.
The word is made up of 'zusammen' (together) and 'Ankunft' (arrival). So it literally describes a situation in which several people 'arrive together' at the same place, meaning they meet.
Es war eine fröhliche Zusammenkunft alter Schulfreunde.
It was a cheerful gathering of old school friends.
This word is often used for planned or organized meetings and has a slightly formal sound. It fits well with official occasions, club meetings, or larger family gatherings.
Der Vorstand lud zu einer außerordentlichen Zusammenkunft ein.
The board invited everyone to an extraordinary gathering.
To describe who is meeting, the genitive or a prepositional phrase with 'von' (of/by) is often used. For example, people say 'der Zusammenkunft der Experten' (the gathering of the experts) or 'einer Zusammenkunft von Künstlern' (a gathering of artists).
Die Zusammenkunft der Staatschefs wurde live im Fernsehen übertragen.
The gathering of the heads of state was broadcast live on television.
session / meeting
'die Sitzung' and 'die Zusammenkunft' can both mean a meeting of several people. However, 'Sitzung' sounds more formal and is especially used for groups that discuss topics and make decisions, for example a board or a parliament. In addition, 'Sitzung' can also mean a single appointment with a professional, such as a therapist. 'Zusammenkunft' is more general: it can be a planned or spontaneous gathering, formal or informal. The words can be confused because both have to do with meetings. If it is about clear discussion and decisions in a fixed group, 'Sitzung' is more precise. If you only mean that people come together, 'Zusammenkunft' fits better.
Unsere Zusammenkunft im Garten war kurz, aber sehr freundlich.
Our gathering in the garden was short but very friendly.
Wegen der wichtigen Entscheidung hat die Sitzung des Vorstands länger gedauert.
Because of the important decision, the board meeting lasted longer.