public assembly

USAGE SUMMARY

"public assembly" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a gathering or meeting of people in a public space for a specific purpose. Example: The city council has approved a permit for a public assembly in the park to protest against the proposed construction of a new highway.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The city decided it would allow public assembly only in controlled circumstances.

The New York Times

"They don't have demonstrations here," the diplomat said, referring to the heavy restrictions on public assembly.

The New York Times

Media censorship is in reserve for the moment, as is the ban on public assembly.

The Economist

The Paris "march against hatred" was the largest public assembly in French history.

Independent

Police permission is required, and the definition of "public assembly" is, shall we say, quite narrow.

The New York Times

Mosques, hitherto closed between prayer times to limit public assembly, are open round the clock.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Dozens were shot and killed during those protests, and public ­assembly is still severely restricted.

The Guardian - Travel

Public Assembly, 70 North Sixth Street, Brooklyn.

The New York Times

They play Public Assembly, Fader Fort, and Pianos on Oct. 20.

The New Yorker

At 8 p.m., Public Assembly, 70 North Sixth Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, [phone], publicassemblynyc.com; $10.

The New York Times - Arts

At 8 p.m., Public Assembly, 70 North Sixth Street, Brooklyn, [phone], publicassemblynyc.com; $22.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal restrictions or rights related to gatherings, use "public assembly" to maintain a formal and precise tone. For example, refer to laws governing "public assembly" rather than informal gatherings.

Common error

Avoid using "public assembly" when simply referring to any group of people in a public space. The term often carries legal or political connotations, so use more general terms like "public gathering" or "crowd" when those connotations are not intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "public assembly" primarily functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig examples show it often appears as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to the act or instance of people gathering publicly. As a noun phrase, it can be modified by adjectives (e.g., large public assembly) or followed by prepositional phrases.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

19%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "public assembly" correctly refers to a gathering of people in a public space, often with legal and political connotations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it is commonly used in news, encyclopedias, and wiki contexts. While closely related to phrases like "public gathering" and "mass gathering", "public assembly" is often used in a more formal manner, especially when discussing legal rights or restrictions. Therefore, understanding its implications is key to using it accurately in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

public gathering

A general term for any assembly of people in a public location.

mass gathering

Refers to a large group of people coming together, often for a specific event or purpose.

mass meeting

Focuses on the meeting aspect of the assembly, suggesting a more formal or organized gathering.

civic gathering

Similar to "civil gathering", but can also refer to ceremonial or celebratory events.

civil gathering

Emphasizes the civic or community-oriented nature of the assembly.

mass rally

Indicates a large and often politically motivated gathering.

public demonstration

Highlights the aspect of protesting or advocating for a cause.

open meeting

Emphasizes the accessibility and transparency of the gathering.

community forum

Implies a discussion-based assembly focused on local issues.

organized protest

Highlights the planned and coordinated nature of the assembly for expressing dissent.

FAQs

How is "public assembly" legally defined?

The legal definition of "public assembly" varies by jurisdiction, but it generally refers to a gathering of people in a public space with the intent to express views or engage in a common purpose. Laws often regulate permits, locations, and conduct to ensure public safety and order.

What rights are associated with the freedom of "public assembly"?

The freedom of "public assembly" is a fundamental right protected by many constitutions and human rights declarations. It includes the right to gather peacefully, express opinions, and advocate for change, subject to reasonable restrictions to maintain public order.

What's the difference between "public assembly" and a "public gathering"?

While both terms refer to people coming together in a public space, "public assembly" often implies a more organized or purposeful gathering, such as a protest or demonstration. A "public gathering" can be more informal, like a group of friends meeting in a park.

Are there restrictions on the right to "public assembly"?

Yes, restrictions on the right to "public assembly" are permissible if they are necessary to protect public safety, order, or the rights of others, and if they are narrowly tailored and applied in a non-discriminatory manner. Restrictions must not unduly infringe on the freedom to express views and advocate for change.