B2noun2K

Certificate

UK /["/səˈtɪfɪkət/"]/US /["/sərˈtɪfɪkət/"]/

Definition

an official document that may be used to prove that the facts it states are true

In simple words: An official document that shows you have completed something or have a certain skill.

Examples

  • a **birth/marriage/death certificate**
  • a certificate of motor insurance
  • The police are waiting for the doctor to issue a death certificate.
  • a certificate of authenticity
  • She showed her certificate of insurance.
  • Everyone entering the country needs to show a health certificate.
  • This certificate is an important document. Keep it in a safe place.
  • a Postgraduate Certificate in Education *(= a British qualification for teachers)*
  • A certificate of completion will be issued to all who complete the course.

Usage notes

Use 'certificate' in contexts like education or training. It’s neutral, suitable for most settings, but might seem too formal for casual conversations about accomplishments.

Grammar pattern

certificate + of + achievement

Memory hint

Think of 'certificate' as 'certified' + 'document', like showing you’ve been certified in something.

Collocations

  • birth
  • death
  • marriage
  • award (somebody)
  • issue
  • earn
  • certificate of
  • birth
  • death
  • marriage
  • award (somebody)
  • issue
  • earn
  • certificate of

Synonyms

  • diploma
  • credential
  • document
  • license

Antonyms

  • cancellation
  • void

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'certification', which refers to the process rather than the document.
  • Using 'certificates' incorrectly when referring to a singular achievement.
  • Saying 'certificate of completement' instead of 'certificate of completion'.