Biannual Meaning and Definition
Biannual
Pronunciation
/ˈbaɪ.ən.əl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A period of two years, halfway between two consecutive annual events or occurrences.
Examples
- The company holds a biannual conference to discuss new product developments.
- The biannual sales event features exclusive deals on popular products.
Synonyms
- Biennial
- Semiannual
Antonyms
- Annual
- Triennial
Etymology
The word “biannual” comes from the Latin “biennalis,” meaning “occurring every two years,” and the suffix “-al,” which forms an adjective.
Usage Notes
When referring to events or occurrences that take place every two years, use “biannual.” For example, “The company hosts a biannual festival to celebrate its anniversary.” However, for events that occur once every two years, use “biennial.” For example, “The biennial conference attracts attendees from around the world.”
Cultural References
Biannual has appeared in various forms of media, including popular films and literature. For example, in the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the character Nick Carraway describes a biannual party held by the wealthy elite.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “biannual.”
Related Words or Phrases
Words and phrases closely related to “biannual” include “biennial,” “semiannual,” and “annual.”
Collocations
Common collocations with “biannual” include “conference,” “sales event,” and “meeting.”
Frequency of Use
Biannual is not as commonly used as other words related to time intervals, such as “annual” or “semiannual.” However, it is still used in various contexts to describe events or occurrences that take place every two years.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “biannual” include “biennal,” “bienniel,” and “bi-enial.”