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.
to meet / to hit
Treffen and die Zusammenkunft can both refer to a planned meeting of several people. Treffen is neutral and common in everyday language, while Zusammenkunft sounds more elevated and formal. For an ordinary private or everyday arrangement, Treffen is usually the better choice; in a formal context, Zusammenkunft is more appropriate.
Die Zusammenkunft der Mitglieder beginnt morgen um zwölf Uhr.
The members’ gathering begins tomorrow at noon.
Wir treffen uns morgen zu einem gemeinsamen Essen.
We’re meeting tomorrow for a meal together.
