Completion vs Graduation

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 CompletionGraduation
MeaningThe act of finishing something.The ceremony when students finish school or college.
CEFR levelB2-
Part of speechnoun
Usage notesUse 'completion' in contexts where something is finished. Common in academic or formal settings, but less so in casual conversation. Be careful in using it in informal settings where simpler words may work better.Used mostly in educational contexts. Formal when referring to the ceremony, and can be informal when discussing the achievement.

Frequently asked questions: Completion vs Graduation

What's the difference between "Completion" and "Graduation"?

"Completion" means: The act of finishing something. "Graduation" means: The ceremony when students finish school or college.

When should I use "Completion" and "Graduation"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

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