convention
kuhn-VEN-shuhn
/kənˈven.ʃən/
An agreement between states or nations covering specific matters, especially one less formal than a treaty.
In legal and international contexts, it refers to a binding multilateral treaty negotiated by international consensus.
The story behind the word. Rooted in the Latin 'convenire', which literally means 'to come together.' Ancient Romans used it for gatherings where representatives met to reach binding agreements. Over centuries, international diplomacy adopted the term for formal multi-nation treaties.
Word relationships
- accord: An accord is often a bilateral peace deal, while a convention is typically a multilateral framework.
- disagreement: Disagreement is a clash of views, whereas a convention is a structured formal consensus.
Commonly confused with
- charter: A charter establishes an organization or grants rights; a convention regulates state conduct.
Word family
- conventional (adjective): Based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.
Collocations
- Geneva Convention
- sign a convention
- breach of convention
Example sentences
- "The state signatory agreed to uphold all terms outlined in the Geneva Convention." International Human Rights
Memory hook
People CONVENE at a CONVENTION to reach a shared accord. Coming together to agree.
When not to use
Do not confuse this legal sense with a standard business convention or social custom, though all stem from 'coming together.'
Fun facts
- The Geneva Conventions consist of four treaties and three additional protocols governing armed conflict.
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