The definitions given here are applicable to contemplative nuns. Dictionary definitions may be different.

• ASSOCIATION An association is an organ of communion arranged for the mutual support and encouragement of the member communities. It is established by Statutes approved by the Holy See and is run by elected officials voted for by the member communities. None of the officials are a major superior with authority over the member communities. An association is similar to a federation, but quite different from a congregation.
• AUTONOMY Autonomy is the state of self-government. Each contemplative community is autonomous according to the meaning established in the community’s Constitutions. Autonomy has two constitutive aspects: legal and practical. The legal aspect is valid in as much as the community corresponds to the parameters set out in the Constitutions. The practical aspect of autonomy covers four areas: leadership, finances, formation and community. Each community must have the personnel and assets necessary to be self-supporting. If any of the practical aspects of autonomy is lacking, the community loses its legal autonomy.
• CONGREGATION A congregation is an organ of governance composed of the member communities united according to the Constitutions of the congregation. It is governed by a Mother Superior elected by the member communities. There are not many congregations of contemplative nuns.
• FEDERATION A federation is an organ of communion similar to an association. The main difference is that a federation normally has a religious assistant.
• RELIGIOUS ASSISTANT A priest chosen by the Dicastery for Consecrated Life from among a list of possible candidates proposed by the association or federation. He observes the well-being of the association or federation on behalf of the Dicastery