What signifies a formal conclusion to a meeting?

Adjournment signifies a formal conclusion to a meeting because it is a specific term used in parliamentary procedure to indicate that the meeting is officially over. When a meeting is adjourned, it means that all business has been concluded, and participants are released from their duties. This action can take place at the end of a scheduled meeting or any time during a session as necessary, adhering to proper procedures.

The concept of adjournment has clear guidelines and can be initiated by a motion that is seconded and approved by a majority vote. This ensures that all members agree to conclude the meeting, thus formalizing the end of the session.

In contrast, other options may not carry the same level of formality or adherence to parliamentary procedure. For instance, a closure announcement or final remarks may indicate a desire to wrap up the meeting but do not officially conclude it unless followed by an adjournment. The end of session is a more vague term that may not clearly indicate that specific procedures have been followed to signify the end of the meeting. Therefore, while other terms imply an ending, adjournment is the definitive action that formally concludes a meeting.