What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
graduation
Example
I'm so excited for my graduation ceremony next week! [graduation: noun]
Example
After years of hard work, I finally graduated from college. [graduated: past tense verb]
commencement
Example
The commencement speaker gave an inspiring speech to the graduates. [commencement: noun]
Example
I am looking forward to the commencement of my new job next month. [commencement: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Graduation is more common than commencement in everyday language, as it is the term most commonly used to describe the ceremony where students receive their diplomas or degrees.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between graduation and commencement?
Commencement is more formal than graduation, and is often used in official contexts such as academic institutions or government agencies.
