Congratulations! Graduados is the Spanish word for graduates, and whether you want to express your own achievement or congratulate someone else, it’s a phrase that you’ll definitely want to know. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to say “graduados” in Spanish, providing useful tips, examples, and even touching upon regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Graduados”
When it comes to formal contexts, such as official ceremonies, speeches, or academic settings, it is essential to use appropriate language to show respect. Here are a few formal ways to say “graduados”:
- “Los graduados” – This form is the most basic and commonly used way to refer to a group of graduates. For example, “Felicitaciones a los graduados de este año” (Congratulations to the graduates of this year).
- “Los egresados” – Although less common, this term is also used in formal settings, especially in Latin America. For instance, “Este es un reconocimiento a todos los egresados de la universidad” (This is an acknowledgment to all the university graduates).
- “Los licenciados” – This term is specifically used for graduates who have earned a university degree, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher. For example, “Felicidades a los licenciados en derecho” (Congratulations to the law graduates).
- “Los diplomados” – When referring to those who have completed a diploma or certification program, you can use this term. For instance, “Enhorabuena a los diplomados en enfermería” (Congratulations to the nursing diploma holders).
Informal Ways to Say “Graduados”
In more casual or informal situations, such as when talking to friends, family, or peers, it’s common to use less formal language. Here are some informal ways to say “graduados”:
- “Los graduados” – Just like in formal settings, using “los graduados” without any additional terms is still perfectly acceptable in informal contexts. For example, “¡Felicitaciones a los graduados! ¡Lo han logrado!” (Congratulations to the graduates! You did it!)
- “Los graduaditos” – This playful and affectionate term is often used, especially when referring to younger graduates, like kindergarten or primary school students. For instance, “¡Felicidades a los graduaditos de primer grado!” (Congratulations to the little graduates of first grade!).
- “Los bachilleres” – In some Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Latin America, the term “bachilleres” is widely used to refer to high school graduates. It is common to hear phrases like “¡Felicidades, bachilleres! ¡Ha sido un largo camino!” (Congratulations, high school graduates! It has been a long journey!).
- “Los que se van con su título bajo el brazo” – This phrase, which translates to “those who leave with their degree under their arm,” is often used humorously. It implies that graduates are ready to face the world with their newly acquired knowledge. An example could be “¡Bravo por los que se van con su título bajo el brazo! ¡El mundo les espera!” (Bravo to those who leave with their degree under their arm! The world awaits you!).
Regional Variations
While the above expressions are widely used across Spanish-speaking countries, it’s worth noting that there might be some regional variations in how “graduados” is said. For example:
In Mexico, it is common to use the expression “los egresados” when referring to university graduates. Alternatively, “los profesionistas” or “los recién titulados” can also be used.
In Argentina, the term “los recibidos” is often used instead of “los graduados”.
In Spain, “los licenciados” or “los diplomados” are the most commonly used terms, particularly for university graduates.
Remember, even though regional variations exist, the above suggestions will make you easily understood, regardless of the Spanish-speaking country you find yourself in.
Summing It Up
In conclusion, now you know various ways to say “graduados” in Spanish, both in formal and informal settings. By using the appropriate terms, you can show respect, warmth, and enhance your communication with graduates and the people celebrating their achievements. Whether you use “los graduados,” “los egresados,” or any of the other alternatives we discussed, remember that the most important thing is to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of those who have successfully completed their studies. ¡Felicidades a todos los graduados!
