Definition

Noun: A large, often public, gathering of people, typically organized for a specific purpose such as listening to speeches, showing support for a cause, or participating in a demonstration. The primary aim is often to generate enthusiasm, solidarity, or collective action among the attendees.

Usage

The term "mass meeting" is used to describe a formal or semi-formal assembly characterized by its large scale. It implies a planned event with a unifying theme or goal, distinct from a spontaneous crowd. It is commonly used in political, social, or organizational contexts.

Examples

• The political candidate held a mass meeting in the city square to rally support before the election.
• A mass meeting of union members was convened to discuss the proposed strike action.
• The community organized a mass meeting to address concerns about the new construction project.

Advanced Usage

• "To convene/call a mass meeting": To formally organize or summon people for such a large gathering.
  • The leaders decided to convene a mass meeting to present their demands.
• "To address a mass meeting": To give a speech to the assembled crowd.
  • The activist was invited to address the mass meeting on environmental policy.

Variants and Related Words

• Rally (n): A large public meeting, especially one held outdoors, to show support for a cause or person. Often implies more energetic enthusiasm than "mass meeting."
• Assembly (n): A general term for a group of people gathered together for a common purpose. It can be smaller or less specific than a mass meeting.
• Convocation (n): A large, formal assembly of people, often for a ceremonial or academic purpose.

Synonyms

• Rally
• Gathering
• Assembly
• Convocation
• Congress (in some contexts)

Antonyms

• Private meeting
• Small gathering
• Closed session

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "To drum up support at a mass meeting": To actively generate enthusiasm or backing during such an event.
  • The campaign's strategy was to drum up support at a series of mass meetings across the state.
• "Mass meeting mentality": (Sometimes used critically) Refers to the collective emotion or groupthink that can emerge in a large, impassioned crowd.
  • The speaker warned against the dangers of a mass meeting mentality overriding individual critical thought.

Noun

1. a large gathering of people intended to arouse enthusiasm