Reunion vs. Meeting: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 2, 2023
A reunion is a social gathering of individuals who have been apart, while a meeting is a convened event for a specific purpose.
Key Differences
A reunion often signifies an emotional gathering of people who share personal bonds but have been separated, such as family or classmates. In contrast, a meeting is a more formal gathering with a defined agenda or objective, such as discussing business or organizational matters.
Reunions are typically planned to rekindle relationships and reminisce about shared experiences from the past. Meetings, however, are convened to provide information, make decisions, or facilitate collaboration among its attendees.
While reunions tend to occur after significant periods and are usually less frequent, aiming to celebrate or honor a particular time, meetings are common, regular events in professional and civic contexts and do not necessarily mark any special occasion.
The atmosphere of a reunion is often festive and nostalgic, focusing on social interaction and personal connections. A meeting, conversely, is generally business-like, with a focus on efficiency, discussion points, and outcomes.
Reunions can take place over several days, such as a weekend, and include various activities and meals, whereas meetings are usually restricted to a few hours and may involve just a single session of engagement.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
To socialize and reconnect.
To discuss, decide, or inform.
Frequency
Often infrequent, such as annual or less.
Can be regular, like weekly or monthly.
Emotion
Typically emotional and nostalgic.
Generally practical and task-oriented.
Duration
Can last a whole day or more.
Usually lasts for a few minutes to hours.
Relationship of Attendees
Usually personal, like friends or family.
Professional, civic, or interest-based.
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Reunion and Meeting Definitions
Reunion
An occasion for reuniting and reminiscing shared experiences.
At the college reunion, everyone shared stories of their student days.
Meeting
A convened assembly for discussion or business.
We have a team meeting every Monday to plan the week ahead.
Reunion
An event to celebrate the gathering of a particular group.
The high school reunion brought together classmates from thirty years ago.
Meeting
A session where a group comes together for a purpose.
During the meeting, we need to finalize the project timeline.
Reunion
A meeting of relatives or friends after separation.
The twins planned a grand reunion to celebrate their adoption anniversary.
Meeting
An event where people gather to discuss mutual interests.
The book club's monthly meeting is this Thursday.
Reunion
A social assembly of individuals who share a common past.
The military unit organized a reunion to commemorate their time in service together.
Meeting
A scheduled appointment between two or more people.
I have a meeting with the new client to discuss their marketing strategy.
Reunion
A gathering of people coming together after a period apart.
Our family reunion happens every summer at the lake house.
Meeting
An assembly of individuals for official or formal discussions.
The board meeting will address the recent changes in company policy.
Reunion
The act of reuniting.
Meeting
The act or process or an instance of coming together; an encounter.
Meeting
An assembly or gathering of people, as for a business, social, or religious purpose.
FAQs
Is a reunion considered an event?
Yes, a reunion is considered a social event with a focus on reconnection.
Who typically organizes a reunion?
Reunions are often organized by a committee of the group members or by event planning services.
Can meetings be virtual?
Yes, meetings can be conducted in-person or virtually through video or teleconferencing.
Are reunions formal or informal?
Reunions are generally informal and focus on social interactions.
Can reunions involve activities?
Yes, reunions often involve various activities designed to facilitate bonding and interaction.
How often do reunions usually take place?
Reunions typically occur less frequently, such as annually or at multi-year intervals.
Should action items be assigned in a meeting?
Assigning action items in a meeting helps ensure follow-through on discussed topics.
What is the main goal of a meeting?
The main goal of a meeting is to accomplish a task, make decisions, or exchange information.
What makes a meeting effective?
Clear objectives, a structured agenda, and active participation make a meeting effective.
How long before should a meeting be scheduled?
Meetings should be scheduled with enough advance notice for attendees to prepare.
What is the importance of a meeting agenda?
An agenda provides structure and ensures the meeting covers all necessary topics efficiently.
Do meetings require an agenda?
Most formal meetings have an agenda to guide the discussion and objectives.
Do people dress up for reunions?
Dress codes for reunions vary, ranging from casual to formal, depending on the event.
Are reunions always related to family?
No, reunions can also be for schoolmates, colleagues, or any group with a shared history.
Can meetings have a social element?
While focused on tasks, some meetings may include social elements like meals or networking.
Are minutes taken at every meeting?
Minutes are usually taken at formal meetings to record what was discussed and decided.
Is it common to have guest speakers at meetings?
Yes, especially if the meeting's agenda includes topics requiring expert insights.
What is a reunion planner?
A reunion planner is a professional who specializes in organizing reunion events.
What's the difference between a reunion and an anniversary?
A reunion is a gathering, while an anniversary is the commemoration of a specific date.
Is a class reunion typically a large event?
Class reunions can range from small gatherings to large events, depending on the group size.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
