dinner party

USAGE SUMMARY

"dinner party" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about a celebratory or social gathering that usually takes place in the evening. For example, "My family is hosting a dinner party this weekend and we're all excited for it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Dinner party?

The New York Times - Food

The dinner party.

The New York Times

A dinner party?

Independent

It's my dinner party.

The New Yorker

You're at a dinner party.

The New York Times

I'm having a dinner party".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Dinner-party conversation-starters sorted for months.

The Economist

THAT favourite dinner-party topic is back.

The Economist

This is no cosy dinner-party reunion.

Independent

This year's dinner-party soundtrack?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In dinner-party Britain it never happened.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "dinner party", be specific about the occasion, theme, or atmosphere to provide a clearer picture for your audience. For example, specify if it's a casual get-together, a formal celebration, or a themed event.

Common error

Avoid describing every "dinner party" as a "soirée" or using overly formal language unless it truly reflects the event's nature. Instead, focus on descriptive details that capture the unique aspects of the gathering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dinner party" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it denotes a social gathering centered around an evening meal hosted in a private residence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dinner party" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a social gathering centered around a meal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, although most frequently found in News & Media. Related phrases include "formal dinner" and "social supper", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of the event. When using the phrase, clarity regarding the event's tone and theme enhances communication. Avoiding overly formal or cliché descriptions will keep your writing fresh and engaging. Given its widespread use and clear meaning, "dinner party" remains a reliable and effective term in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

social supper

Uses "supper" as a synonym for dinner, maintaining the social context.

intimate dinner

Focuses on the closeness and small size of the gathering.

gathering for dinner

A more descriptive way of expressing the event, highlighting the purpose of gathering.

formal dinner

Focuses on the formality aspect, omitting the social gathering.

dinner engagement

Formalizes the event as a scheduled social commitment centered around dinner.

private banquet

Implies a larger, more formal gathering than a typical "dinner party".

hosted dinner

Emphasizes the act of hosting the meal, rather than the event itself.

evening soiree

Emphasizes the evening and social aspect but does not necessarily include a meal.

dinner reception

Combines the elements of a dinner with a more formal reception setting.

festive meal

Highlights the celebratory nature of the meal, rather than the social gathering itself.

FAQs

How can I use "dinner party" in a sentence?

You can use "dinner party" in sentences like, "We're hosting a "dinner party" next Saturday,", "Attending a "dinner party" can be a great way to meet new people" or "The "dinner party" was a resounding success".

What's a more formal alternative to "dinner party"?

Alternatives to "dinner party" that convey a more formal tone include "formal dinner", "private banquet", or "dinner reception", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between a "dinner party" and a casual dinner?

A "dinner party" typically involves invited guests, a more elaborate meal, and a planned social gathering. A casual dinner, on the other hand, is usually a more informal and spontaneous meal with family or close friends.

How do I host a successful "dinner party"?

A successful "dinner party" involves careful planning, including sending invitations, preparing a delicious menu, creating a welcoming atmosphere, and engaging in enjoyable conversation. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests to ensure everyone feels included.