agenda

/əˈdʒendə/
list of items to be discussed

The meeting agenda included five key topics.

The list of items to discuss in the meeting had five main points.


formal

A list of items to be discussed at a meeting or event.

The committee reviewed the agenda before the meeting.

The group checked the list of topics before the discussion.

Often used in professional or organizational settings.

informal

A hidden or secret plan, often with negative connotations.

Some people believe the government has a hidden agenda.

Some people think the government has a secret plan.

This usage is more common in political or conspiracy discussions.

Collocations

hidden agendaa secret plan or motiveset the agendato determine the priorities or topics for discussion

Related Phrases

set the agendaphrase
to determine the priorities or topics for discussion
hidden agendaphrase
a secret plan or motive

Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

Use 'agenda' in formal settings to refer to a list of topics. In informal contexts, it can imply a secret plan.

Gold Rule

Plural Form

The word 'agenda' is singular in form but refers to multiple items, so it does not take a plural form (e.g., 'the agenda is...').

Word Origin

From Latin 'agenda', neuter plural of 'agendum' (thing to be done), from 'agere' (to do).

Usage Notes

The word can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but the negative connotation is more common in informal usage.

Word Breakdown

ag-
to do
root
+
-enda
things to be done
suffix
English Dictionary