The Word “Graduated”: A Synonym-Centric Exploration
graduated – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “graduated” can serve as a verb or an adjective depending on its context:
- Verb: To complete a course of study successfully and earn a degree.
- Adjective: Having been through a particular process (often education) or characterized by incremental changes.
Forms:
- As a verb, it is used in various tenses: graduated, graduates, graduating.
- As an adjective, “graduated” describes something that features a series of steps or levels.
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Completed | Suggests finishing a task or study without implying sequential stages. | “She completed her degree at the university.” | General/Informal |
| Finished | Similar to completed, often used informally. | “He finished his studies and got his diploma last summer.” | Casual |
| Earned | Implies receiving something as a result of effort or achievement. | “She earned her master’s degree in two years.” | Formal/Academic |
| Passed | Typically used when referring to successfully meeting requirements, especially exams. | “He passed all his exams and graduated with honors.” | Academic/Formal |
| Obtained | Suggests acquisition, often formal or official contexts. | “After years of hard work, he obtained his PhD in chemistry.” | Formal/Official |
Usage Notes
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Completed: This term is versatile and widely applicable across various settings—academic, business, or casual conversation. It’s appropriate when the emphasis is on the act of finishing rather than the process leading up to it.
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Finished: Often used more informally than “completed,” this synonym suits everyday conversations about concluding studies or tasks without a formal ceremony involved.
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Earned: Best suited for academic and professional contexts, “earned” highlights achievement and merit. It implies that effort and performance were critical in receiving the degree or qualification.
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Passed: Commonly used when discussing examinations or specific assessments within an educational framework, indicating that requirements have been met successfully.
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Obtained: This synonym is best applied in formal writing or speech where there’s a focus on the acquisition of something valuable, such as a degree, license, or certification.
Common Pitfalls
A common confusion arises with using “graduated” to mean leaving school or work entirely. While it can imply this in casual settings (“He graduated from his job”), it primarily refers to the formal completion of an educational program. Similarly, “earned” should not be confused with “received,” as it carries the implication of effort and merit.
Final Recap
- Completed is a flexible synonym for general use.
- Finished offers a casual alternative.
- Earned conveys achievement in formal or academic contexts.
- Passed emphasizes meeting specific criteria, often exams.
- Obtained highlights the acquisition aspect in official settings.
Understanding these nuances can enhance your vocabulary and ensure precise communication. Practice using these synonyms in sentences or conversations to better grasp their applications and distinctions!