Correct Meeting Scheduling Terminology: AM, PM, and Noons

When organizing a meeting, it's essential to use the correct terminology to avoid any misunderstandings. This guide will help you understand the correct usage of AM, PM, and noon to ensure your meeting schedules are clear and precise. Common questions such as whether it's correct to say 'Can we arrange a meeting on Tuesday 11 June from 11 am to noon or from 3 to 4 pm' will be addressed with examples and explanations.

Meeting Scheduling Terminology: AM and PM

AM stands for A.M. (ante meridiem), meaning 'before midday,' and is used for times before noon. PM stands for P.M. (post meridiem), meaning 'after midday,' and is used for times after noon. The transition from AM to PM occurs at noon, which is exactly 12:00.

Common Misunderstandings: '11 to 12 AM'

A common point of confusion occurs with the expression '11 to 12 AM.' Based on the typical interpretation in American English, '11 to 12 AM' would be understood as '11 PM to midnight.' This is because the suffix in time notations changes at noon. In British English, a similar rule applies, although differences in regional language usage can lead to slight variations.

To avoid any ambiguity, it's best to rephrase '11 to 12 AM' as '11 AM to noon.' This ensures clarity and avoids any potential misunderstandings.

Rigorously Correct Scheduling

For a more rigorous and clear approach, consider rephrasing the question as follows:

Can we meet on Tuesday June 11 either from 11 AM to noon or 3 to 4 PM?

This formulation avoids any potential confusion and is suitable for international business English. It accommodates the differences between American and British English, as well as the preferences of those who use English as a second language.

Accommodating International Business English

International business English must be adaptable to various linguistic backgrounds and regional conventions. By considering the perspectives of both American and British English speakers and non-native speakers, you can ensure that your meeting schedules are understood universally.

Here are a few more examples to further illustrate the correct usage:

Example 1

Can we have a meeting on Friday, June 14th from 9 AM to 11 AM?

Correct Rephrase: Can we meet on Friday, June 14 either from 9 AM to 11 AM or from 3 PM to 4 PM?

Example 2

Is it possible to schedule a conference on Thursday, June 20th from 12 PM to 2 PM?

Correct Rephrase: Can we meet on Thursday, June 20 either from noon to 2 PM or from 5 PM to 7 PM?

Conclusion

Using the correct terminology—AM, PM, and noon—ensures that your meeting schedules are clear and universally understood. By adhering to these conventions, you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure smooth coordination with colleagues and partners across different regions and linguistic backgrounds.