What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harvesting
Example
The farmers were busy harvesting their wheat fields before the rain came. [harvesting: verb]
Example
The harvesting of apples in the orchard was a family tradition every fall. [harvesting: noun]
gathering
Example
We went gathering wildflowers in the meadow for our art project. [gathering: verb]
Example
The gathering of family and friends for Thanksgiving dinner was a joyous occasion. [gathering: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Harvesting is more commonly used in the context of agriculture and farming, while gathering is more commonly used in the context of wild food collection or social events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harvesting and gathering?
Harvesting is generally more formal than gathering, which has a more casual connotation and can be used in a variety of contexts.