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Is “party” the same thing as “celebration”? Can both words (party vs celebration) be used interchangeably?
Although these words represent the moment of happiness and fun, they have different meanings in the English dictionary.
The term “party” has several meanings in the English dictionary. As an intransitive verb, the word “party” means to “celebrate at a party. To have fun to enjoy with friends.
The word “celebration” also has several meanings. It’s a noun and it refers to the social gathering for entertainment and fun. Celebration is also the process of showing appreciation, gratitude or remembrance- notably as a social event.
Celebrations are often big events, with more people in attendance than parties. It’s the observance of a holiday or feast day by solemnities.
We will be explaining more in this article about the difference between “party” vs “celebration”.
What Is the Meaning of Party?
The word “party” has several meanings and we will be looking at the definition of the word based on the topic discussed.
The term “party” is a noun and according to the Oxford English Dictionary, it’s a social gathering for entertainment and fun.
A party is a social gathering of people, especially the young and vibrant ones. It’s a gathering where people come together to celebrate, have fun, chat with friends, dance, sing.
Going to parties is an experience most people love. They are held in places such as nightclubs, homes, schools, poolside, beaches, and just anywhere that feels comfortable to host a party.
This exciting event can organized for several purposes. Birthdays, graduations, weddings, engagements, and anniversaries are memorable moments to host a party. Some people also throw a little party to celebrate a job promotion, a new home, a career achievement, etc.
Parties can also held at restaurants with family and friends.
Parties are entertaining events where the music sometimes can be played a bit too loud. The fun part of going to parties is not just about the music. The menu is usually offer a variety of drinks and foods, especially grilled chicken.
It’s an event people plan for, but one can go partying at the club anytime. Partygoers who love the good life to go clubs to get the entertainment they want.
Some parties are organized strictly by invitation. Such parties are often for the elite of the society.
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Etymology
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the term “party” is from Middle English “partie” from Anglo-French. The word “party” was first used in the 14th century.
What Is the Meaning of Celebration?
The word “celebration” according to the Oxford English Dictionary is a noun, and it is the formal performance of a solemn rite; such as a Christian sacrament.
Celebration is the “social gathering for entertainment and fun. It’s a joyful event that marks a memorable achievement or occasion. It’s an exciting event where people gather in large numbers.
In general, celebrations can be religious or cultural.
For instance, Christmas is the most celebrated time of the year for Christians. Other religious celebrations include Diwali, Eid, Yom Kippur, and Semana Santa.
Celebrations can be large or small, private or public, and religious or cultural.
Cultural celebrations are filled with music, art, food, dance, and colourful cultural attire. They welcome some of the largest crowds in any gathering around the world.
A celebration to display cultural heritage in a unique way.
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Etymology
According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, celebration as a word is from Middle English “celebrare”, to frequent, observe, throng an occasion.
Party vs Celebration: Key Differences between Party and Celebration
A party is a social gathering that connects people to enjoy themselves. It offers entertainment, food, drinks, and so much more.
On the other hand, the word “celebration” marks special events and occasions. It is a bigger event compared to parties that can be held at restaurants, beaches, homes, clubs, or poolsides.
It’s a gathering where people come together to celebrate, have fun, chat with friends, dance, sing.
Going to parties is an experience most people love. They are held in places such as nightclubs, homes, schools, poolside, beaches, and just anywhere that feels comfortable to host a party.
This exciting event can organized for several purposes. Birthdays, graduations, weddings, engagements, and anniversaries are memorable moments to host a party.
Celebration is the “social gathering for entertainment and fun. It’s a joyful event that marks a memorable achievement or occasion. It’s an exciting event where people gather in large numbers.
Celebrations can be large or small, private or public, and religious or cultural.
Cultural celebrations are filled with music, art, food, dance, and colourful cultural attire. They welcome some of the largest crowds in any gathering around the world.
Party vs Celebration: Comparison Chart
| Party | Celebration | |
| Definition | It’s the social gathering for entertainment and fun. | A joyful event that marks a memorable achievement or occasion. |
| Scale | Can be intimate or grand, but it’s still a gathering | Celebrations can be private or public |
| Purpose | Mainly for socializing and fun | To mark a special achievement, occasion or honour. |
| Connotation | Less formal, fun, and social | Festive, significant, and can be formal |
| Examples | Birthday party, beach party, graduation party, costume party, dinner party, pool party, etc. | Graduation, anniversary, and religious festivities |
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Party vs Celebration: Examples of Sentences with Party and Celebration
Let’s look at a few examples of sentences with “party” and “celebration”.
Simple Sentences with the term “Party”
- We left the party late last night, so we had to skip school for today.
- The students were all invited to a pool party at the community swimming pool.
- Marcel had so much to drink last night at the party.
- My friend left the party at 4: 00 am in the morning.
- After the team won the game, the coach threw a surprise party for them.
- Luca and his girlfriend were invited to the party the last time but they never showed up.
- It was on a weekend, so weren’t expecting him to be at home since he likes to party on weekends.
- Maria’s mum threw a surprise birthday party for her last year.
- I’m not going to the last because I have work to do in the morning.
- Jonas fought with his friend at the party.
Simple Sentences with Celebration
- The celebration this year was cancelled because of the ongoing conflict.
- A celebration to remember those who stood firmly against segregation.
- There was a rowdy celebration after the team won the championship.
- Their celebration was interrupted by a quick decision by the referee.
- The celebration began at the sound of the final whistle.
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Party vs Celebration: FAQs
Below are frequently asked questions on the difference between party vs celebration.
Is every party a celebration?
Although parties are held because there is something to celebrate, they can held for socializing.
Are all celebrations public?
No, there are private celebrations with a limited number of people attending.
What makes a gathering a celebration?
A gathering becomes a celebration when the people acknowledge and honour a special occasion.
Can a wedding be a party?
Of course, a wedding usually includes a party as part of its celebration.
Are surprise parties celebrations?
Surprise parties are considered parties that celebrate an occasion when the celebrant is unaware of the surprise.
Conclusion
Parties and celebrations are events that offer entertainment or fun.
Celebrations are often big events, with more people in attendance than parties. A party is a social gathering that connects people to enjoy themselves. It offers entertainment, food, drinks, and so much more.
