graduation

word

/ˌɡɹædʒəˈweɪʃən/
gra-juh-WAY-shuhn
/ɡɹˌædjuːˈeɪʃən/
gra-joo-AY-shuhn

Definition

Graduation is the completion of a course of study, especially at a school, college, or university. It can also refer to the ceremony where students receive their diplomas or degrees.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for both the achievement and the ceremony, so context matters: 'after graduation' usually means after finishing school, while 'at graduation' usually means at the event. Common collocations include 'graduation ceremony,' 'graduation day,' and 'graduation cap.'

Example Sentences

My graduation is next Friday.

basic

Her family came to her graduation.

basic

He got a job after graduation.

basic

I can't believe graduation is only two weeks away.

natural

After graduation, we all went out for dinner together.

natural

She cried during graduation when they called her name.

natural