convention
kuhn-VEN-shuhn
/kənˈvɛnʃən/
A formal agreement between states covering specific matters; or a large meeting or established social custom.
In international law, a convention serves as the foundational overarching treaty framework under which specific protocols are added.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'conventio' (an assembly or agreement), from 'convenire' ('con-' together + 'venire' to come). Literally a 'coming together', it evolved from describing physical gatherings to the formal consensus documents drafted at those gatherings.
Word relationships
- treaty: Treaty is a general term for binding international agreements, whereas convention often sets an overarching normative framework.
- covenant: Covenant carries strong solemn or human-rights overtones, while convention is standard regulatory law.
- unconventionality: Refers to departure from established customs or norms.
- breach: Violation of an agreed international convention.
Commonly confused with
- convenience: Convenience means ease or suitability, whereas convention means a formal agreement or custom.
Word family
- conventional (adjective): Based on or in accordance with what is generally done.
- convene (verb): To come together or assemble for a meeting.
Collocations
- climate convention
- framework convention
- call a convention
- defy convention
Idioms & expressions
- by convention
Example sentences
- "The primary objective of the framework convention was to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations at a safe level." Treaty foundational text
- "Representatives gathered at the international convention to negotiate new wetland conservation rules." Diplomatic gathering
Memory hook
CON (together) + VEN (come) = Coming together to establish rules. Coming together for a common framework.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a short-term contract between private individuals.
Fun facts
- The Geneva Conventions of 1949 established international legal standards for humanitarian treatment in war.
Related words
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