Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Graduation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "graduation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
卒業
そつぎょう (sotsugyō)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
卒業式
そつぎょうしき (sotsugyōshiki)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "graduation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 卒業 and 卒業式.
In Japanese, 卒業 (そつぎょう (sotsugyō)) is typically associated with "graduation" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents The act of completing a course of study at a school or university. Used with する.
On the other hand, 卒業式 (そつぎょうしき (sotsugyōshiki)) maps to "graduation ceremony" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A formal ceremony to celebrate the completion of studies at a school or university.. A literal translation of "graduation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "卒業"
姉は来年、大学を卒業します。
My older sister will graduate from university next year.
Bilingual Context for "卒業式"
彼は卒業式で代表として挨拶しました。
He gave a speech as a representative at the graduation ceremony.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "姉は来年、大学を ＿＿＿ します。" (Meaning: "My older sister will graduate from university next year.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "卒業" fits here because it means "graduation" in the context of: "My older sister will graduate from university next year.". "卒業式" represents "graduation ceremony".