1.
social gathering; mixer; get-together
A gathering designed for people to socialize and deepen personal connections, typically held after a formal event such as a conference, seminar, or ceremony. Usually involves food and drinks.
セミナーの後に懇親会がある。
There is a social gathering after the seminar.
懇親会で名刺を交換した。
I exchanged business cards at the mixer.
学会の懇親会では、研究者同士が親睦を深める機会になる。
The social gathering at the academic conference is an opportunity for researchers to deepen personal connections.
USAGE:
A formal term for socializing events that typically follow professional or academic gatherings. Unlike casual drinking parties (飲み会), a 懇親会 has a more structured, official character and is often organized by the host institution.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 懇親会を開く (to hold a social gathering)
- 懇親会に参加する (to attend a mixer)
- 懇親会の費用 (cost of the gathering)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 飲み会: drinking party — more casual and informal
- 交流会: networking event — emphasizes exchange and interaction
- 歓迎会: welcome party — specifically for welcoming someone