Gather vs. Gathering

Attribute	Gather	Gathering
Definition	To collect or bring together	The act of coming together for a common purpose
Verb form	Gathers	Gathering
Noun form	Gatherer	Gatherers
Usage	Can be used in various contexts such as gathering information, gathering resources, etc.	Primarily used to refer to a social or formal event where people come together
Etymology	Derived from Middle English "gaderen"	Derived from Middle English "gadering"

Definition

Gather and gathering are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have slightly different meanings. Gather is a verb that means to bring together or collect into one place. It can also refer to the act of assembling or accumulating something. On the other hand, gathering is a noun that refers to a group of people who have come together for a specific purpose. It can also be used as a verb to describe the act of collecting or assembling things.

Usage

When it comes to usage, gather is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, you can gather information, gather your thoughts, or gather a group of friends for a party. Gathering, on the other hand, is more specific and is typically used to describe a social event or meeting. You might attend a gathering of friends or a gathering of professionals in your field.

Connotation

The connotations of gather and gathering also differ slightly. Gather tends to have a more neutral or positive connotation, as it implies bringing things together in a cohesive or organized way. It can also suggest a sense of unity or collaboration. Gathering, on the other hand, can sometimes have a more informal or casual connotation, as it is often used to describe social gatherings or events.

Frequency

In terms of frequency, gather is a more commonly used word than gathering. This is likely because gather is a verb that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while gathering is more specific to social events or meetings. You might find yourself using gather in everyday conversation, whether you are gathering your belongings before leaving the house or gathering information for a project at work.

Etymology

The etymology of gather and gathering can provide some insight into their meanings. Gather comes from the Old English word "gaderian," which means to bring together or unite. Gathering, on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "gaderung," which refers to a meeting or assembly of people. These roots help to explain why gather is more commonly used as a verb, while gathering is often used as a noun.

Examples

To better understand the differences between gather and gathering, let's look at some examples. You might gather your thoughts before giving a presentation, but you would attend a gathering of colleagues to discuss a project. You could gather flowers for a bouquet, but you would go to a gathering of friends for a birthday celebration. These examples illustrate how gather and gathering can be used in different contexts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gather and gathering are two related words that have distinct meanings and uses. Gather is a versatile verb that can be used in a variety of contexts, while gathering is more specific to social events or meetings. The connotations, frequency, and etymology of gather and gathering also differ slightly. By understanding these differences, you can use these words more effectively in your writing and communication.