Meaning and Usage
"宴会" (えんかい) refers to a party or banquet, often a formal or semi-formal gathering involving food and drinks. It is commonly used in workplace or social contexts where groups gather to celebrate or socialize.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "宴会" in relation to company events, school gatherings, or community celebrations. It implies a somewhat organized event rather than a casual get-together.
Collocations and Patterns
- 宴会を開く (えんかいをひらく): to hold a banquet or party
- 宴会の準備 (えんかいのじゅんび): banquet preparations
- 宴会に参加する (えんかいにさんかする): to attend a banquet
Register and Nuance
"宴会" is polite and neutral, suitable for both formal and informal speech. It is more formal than casual words like "パーティー" (party) and often implies a larger or more organized event.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "宴会" with casual parties. Remember that "宴会" usually involves a planned event with multiple people, often with food and drink, rather than just a small casual gathering.