homecoming

USAGE SUMMARY

"homecoming" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It could be used to refer to the return of an individual or group to a place of origin, or the return of an individual to an institution, such as returning to one's alma mater for a special occasion. For example: "We're looking forward to the annual homecoming celebration at our high school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perhaps you can come …" In an instant, I'd gone from wandering hobo to homecoming friend, thanks to the latest online travel innovations.

The Guardian - Travel

She became "homecoming queen and a mathematics star in high school", which no doubt helped her to overcome "insecurities that would forever motivate her to achieve" after the death of her mother.

The Economist

Such hopes are dashed for adults in both books.Despite its intricate, maze-like progression, "Homecoming" has surprising narrative thrust.

The Economist

It believes in its due.In this section Rudd on the tracks as Gillard takes over Enter the prudent Mr Kan The slow pursuit of justice Functionally democratic Sad homecoming The mysterious Mr Gandhi ReprintsToday Congress stands ready to do the family's bidding, like a well-upholstered Ambassador car always at the front door.

The Economist

The former are turning out in force to protest against a homecoming parade in honour of local troops who have served in British army regiments in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Guardian

Fresh from being pretty much the best thing at the Grammys – which with its Annie Lennox performance actually out Brits'd the Brits – Sheeran plays his new Rudimental collabo for his homecoming.

The Guardian - Music

The case riveted the city – Rondeau had been a homecoming queen – and became the stuff of tabloids and even a TV recreation.

The Guardian

Initially the homecoming was to publicise the opening of the first Luella boutique in Mayfair, but Bartley has decided to stay on the London schedule for now.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Homecoming by Susie Steiner (Faber) is a quiet compelling novel that focuses on the ordinary losses of life and takes the reader on a realistic journey into the emotional lives of the key characters.

The Guardian - Books

So when the EDL organised a "homecoming" march last weekend in Luton, did the prime minister use the opportunity to condemn the racially inflamed provocation of a gang of Muslim-baiters and show solidarity with fellow British citizens under threat?

The Guardian - Opinion

But it is a kind of homecoming for me.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "homecoming" to describe the return to a place of origin or a significant location, often associated with celebrations and reunions. For example, use it to describe alumni returning to their university or soldiers returning from deployment.

Common error

Avoid using "homecoming" to describe general gatherings or events unrelated to a return to a specific place. For example, don't use it to describe a company picnic unless it signifies a return to a previous location or tradition.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "homecoming" is as a noun, referring to the act or event of returning home or to a familiar place. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its usage in describing return celebrations and events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

As Ludwig AI confirms, the term "homecoming" functions primarily as a noun, denoting the act or event of returning to a place of origin or significance. Its usage spans across various contexts, from school celebrations to the return of soldiers, as evidenced by numerous examples. It maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Given its consistent and widespread usage, understanding the nuances of "homecoming" is crucial for effective communication. When using "homecoming", ensure the context involves a return to a place of origin or a place with strong emotional ties to the people or groups involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

return

This is a more general term for coming back.

coming home

This phrase emphasizes the emotional aspect of returning to a familiar place.

welcome back

This phrase focuses on the act of greeting someone upon their return.

triumphal return

This suggests a return after a significant achievement or victory.

return celebration

This phrase emphasizes the celebratory aspect of a return, similar to homecoming.

arrival back

This phrase describes the action of physically getting back to one's origin

returning

Similar to return but is used in a continuous context.

welcome parade

Emphasizes the celebratory public event of someone's arrival.

repatriation

Specific to returning to one's country of origin.

returning alumni event

More specific to the context of alumni reunions.

FAQs

How is "homecoming" commonly used in sentences?

"Homecoming" is often used to describe the return of people to a place they consider home, or to an institution such as a school. For example, "The university organizes a big "homecoming celebration" every year for its alumni."

What are some alternative phrases to "homecoming"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "return", "coming home", or "welcome back".

Is "homecoming" only used in the context of schools and universities?

While "homecoming" is commonly associated with school and university events, it can also refer to the return of individuals or groups to their place of origin, such as soldiers returning home from deployment.

What's the difference between "homecoming" and "reunion"?

"Homecoming" typically refers to a specific event or period of celebration centered around a return, whereas "reunion" is a more general term for a gathering of people who have been separated.