Symposium: meaning, definitions and examples
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symposium
[sษชmหpoสziษm ]
Definitions
academic discussion
A symposium is a formal meeting at which experts discuss a particular topic. It is usually organized to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and foster collaboration among professionals in a specific field.
Synonyms
colloquium, conference, seminar.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| symposium |
Used for a formal meeting or gathering where experts discuss a particular topic, often involving presentations and discussions.
|
| conference |
A larger formal meeting where people with shared interests come together to discuss various topics, often lasting several days and including a wide range of sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches.
|
| seminar |
Usually a smaller, more focused educational meeting or class where a group discusses a specific topic or engages in intensive study.
|
| colloquium |
Typically an academic or professional meeting where specialists deliver lectures on a specific subject and discuss their findings with peers.
|
Examples of usage
- Scientists from around the world gathered at the symposium to present their latest research findings.
- The symposium on climate change brought together experts in environmental science and policy.
- The annual symposium on technology innovation attracts industry leaders and academics alike.
ancient Greece
In ancient Greece, a symposium was a social gathering where men would come together to eat, drink, and engage in intellectual conversations. These gatherings often included music, poetry, and philosophical discussions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| symposium |
Used mainly in academic or professional settings to refer to a formal gathering or conference where experts discuss a specific topic.
|
| banquet |
Refers to a large, formal meal often with numerous courses, usually for a celebration or special event.
|
| feast |
Indicates a large meal, often celebratory, with plenty of food and drink; it can also be used metaphorically.
|
| conviviality |
Describes the quality of being friendly and lively, often in the context of a gathering where people are enjoying each other's company.
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Examples of usage
- The symposium was an important part of Greek social life, providing an opportunity for intellectual exchange and socializing.
- Philosophers like Socrates and Plato were known to participate in symposia to debate ideas and share knowledge.
- The tradition of the symposium in ancient Greece influenced the development of Western philosophy and culture.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'symposium' comes from the Greek word 'symposion', meaning a drinking party, which indicates a gathering of people.
- In ancient Greece, symposiums were social events where men gathered to discuss philosophy while enjoying wine and entertainment.
- The original symposium often included participants reclining on couches and engaging in discussions, highlighting the blend of leisure and learning.
Academic Context
- In modern usage, symposiums are formal meetings, often academic, where experts present research findings and discuss their implications.
- Many symposiums are accompanied by published proceedings, which are collections of papers presented at the meeting for wider dissemination.
- These gatherings can serve as platforms for collaboration among researchers from different fields, fostering interdisciplinary exchange.
Cultural Significance
- Symposiums played a key role in the philosophical development of Western thought, particularly in the works of Plato who wrote 'The Symposium' discussing love and beauty.
- In different cultures, the format of symposiums varies, from casual gatherings in cafes to formal conferences in academic institutions.
- The concept of symposiums has expanded globally, embracing diverse subjects like science, art, and technology, promoting collective intelligence.
Science and Technology
- In the field of science, symposiums allow researchers to showcase their latest findings, which can lead to breakthroughs and new collaborations.
- Live demonstrations or interactive panels are common features at many symposiums, providing hands-on experience alongside theoretical discussions.
- Virtual symposiums have gained traction recently, enabling global participation and accessibility for those unable to attend in person.
Art and Literature
- Artistic symposiums often focus on critiques and discussions of visual arts, allowing artists to express ideas and receive feedback.
- Literary symposiums often involve readings, discussions, and networking opportunities for writers, enhancing their craft and community engagement.
- The exchange of ideas at these gatherings can lead to collaborative projects or the inspiration of new artistic movements.
Translations
Translations of the word "symposium" in other languages:
๐ต๐น simpรณsio
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเคเคเฅเคทเฅเค เฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Symposium
๐ฎ๐ฉ simposium
๐บ๐ฆ ัะธะผะฟะพะทััะผ
๐ต๐ฑ sympozjum
๐ฏ๐ต ใทใณใใธใฆใ
๐ซ๐ท symposium
๐ช๐ธ simposio
๐น๐ท sempozyum
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฌํฌ์ง์
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุฏูุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ sympozium
๐ธ๐ฐ sympรณzium
๐จ๐ณ ็ ่ฎจไผ
๐ธ๐ฎ simpozij
๐ฎ๐ธ rรกรฐstefna
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะธะผะฟะพะทะธัะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแแแแแแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ simpozium
๐ฒ๐ฝ simposio