Conferences are gatherings of individuals to share knowledge, ideas, and experiences. Synonyms for conference include summit, assembly, meeting, colloquium, symposium, forum, convention, consultation, and congress. A summit often refers to a high-level meeting of leaders, while an assembly is a gathering of individuals for a particular purpose. A colloquium is a formal academic gathering, while a symposium is a meeting for discussion and exchange of ideas. A forum is a public meeting or discussion, while a convention is a large gathering for a specific purpose. A consultation is a meeting for discussion and advice, and a congress is a large formal meeting of delegates.