Expeditions: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to organized trips often for a specific purpose such as exploration, scientific research, or military operations.

• The team went on several expeditions to the Arctic to study climate change.
• He funded expeditions to uncharted islands to document rare species.

Appropriate for describing long trips, usually emphasizing the experience or transformation that occurs during the travel. It can be physical, emotional, or metaphorical.

• Her journey across the continent was both challenging and enlightening.
• His journey to self-discovery took many years.

Generally used for shorter or more casual travel, often for leisure, business, or a specific short-term purpose.

• We took a trip to the beach last weekend.
• He made a trip to New York for a business meeting.

Typically used in contexts involving a strong purpose, goal, or duty. Often associated with religious, military, or humanitarian efforts.

• The missionaries embarked on a mission to provide medical aid in the remote village.
• Their mission was to retrieve the confidential documents without being detected.

Expeditions usually refer to organized journeys with a specific purpose, such as research or exploration. These are often methodically planned and involve a group of people.

• The team prepared for their scientific expedition to Antarctica.
• He joined the polar expedition to document the effects of climate change.

Explorations focus on discovering new places, ideas, or things. This term is often used in scientific or historical contexts but can also apply to personal growth and discovery.

• The astronauts conducted explorations on the surface of Mars.
• Her explorations into ancient history revealed many fascinating facts.

Voyages typically refer to long journeys, especially by sea or in space. This term is often used in historical or literary contexts.

• The sailors embarked on a perilous voyage across the Atlantic Ocean.
• Their voyage to the moon marked a significant achievement in space travel.

Adventures are typically associated with exciting, risky, and often pleasurable experiences. These can be less formal and more spontaneous compared to expeditions.

• They went on an adventure to explore the hidden caves.
• Her life is full of incredible adventures from around the world.

Used when talking about journeys with a specific purpose, often related to exploration, scientific research, or adventure.

• The team set out on an expedition to the Arctic to study polar bears
• They planned an expedition to climb Mount Everest

Mainly used in political, social, or military contexts when referring to organized efforts to achieve a particular goal.

• She led a campaign to raise awareness about climate change
• The military launched a campaign to liberate the occupied territory

Refers to specific tasks or assignments, often related to religious, diplomatic, or military objectives.

• The astronauts embarked on a mission to the International Space Station
• The charity group went on a mission to aid victims of the earthquake

Used in a broad range of contexts including military, business, and medical fields, referring to organized activities designed to achieve a set goal.

• The army carried out a covert operation to gather intelligence
• The company's new operation aimed to streamline production processes