What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conference
Example
The annual conference on climate change will be held next month. [conference: noun]
Example
I attended a conference on artificial intelligence last week. [conference: noun]
summit
Example
The G7 summit is scheduled to take place next year. [summit: noun]
Example
The summit on renewable energy was attended by experts from around the world. [summit: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Conference is a more common word than summit and is used in a wider range of contexts. Summit is a more specialized term that is typically used in political or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conference and summit?
Summit is a more formal term than conference and is usually reserved for high-level meetings between officials or executives. Conference can be used in both formal and informal contexts.