So, you’ve completed your studies and want to know how to say “graduate” in Japanese? Congratulations on this remarkable achievement! Whether you’re looking for formal or informal ways to express it, this guide will cover all the bases. Additionally, we will delve into any regional variations that may exist. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Graduate” in Japanese
In formal settings, such as academic or professional contexts, the Japanese language offers several options to convey the idea of “graduate.” Below, you’ll find a list of formal expressions along with their respective usage:
- 卒業する (sotsugyō suru) – This is the most standard and commonly used phrase to mean “to graduate.” It can be used when referring to completing any level of education, from high school to university. For example, you could say, “私は大学を卒業しました” (Watashi wa daigaku o sotsugyō shimashita) to mean “I graduated from university.”
- 卒業者 (sotsugyōsha) – This term specifically refers to a person who has graduated. It is often used in more official contexts, such as graduation ceremonies or formal announcements. For instance, one might say, “卒業者は皆こちらに集まってください” (Sotsugyōsha wa mina kochira ni atsumatte kudasai), which means “All graduates, please gather here.”
- 修了する (shūryō suru) – While this term shares a similar meaning to “graduate,” it typically implies completion of a course or program of study. Thus, while it can be used interchangeably with “卒業する,” it is more commonly heard in the context of shorter programs or vocational courses. For example, one might say, “私はITコースを修了しました” (Watashi wa IT kōsu o shūryō shimashita), meaning “I completed the IT course.”
Informal Ways to Say “Graduate” in Japanese
When it comes to informal situations or casual conversations, the Japanese language provides a range of expressions to say “graduate.” Here are a few commonly used informal phrases:
- 卒業する (sotsugyō suru) – Yes, we saw this term earlier in the formal section, but it’s worth noting that “卒業する” can also be used casually. In casual conversation, people often drop the “shimasu/shimashita” ending to create a shorter form, resulting in “卒業する” (sotsugyō suru). For instance, you might say, “あいつ、もう卒業した？” (Aitsu, mō sotsugyō shita?), which means “Has he/she already graduated?”
- 卒 (sotsu) – This abbreviation is a common and informal way to refer to graduation. It is frequently utilized in casual conversations among friends or peers. For example, you can simply say, “よくやった！卒だ！” (Yoku yatta! Sotsu da!), meaning “Well done! You graduated!”
- 卒業生 (sotsugyōsei) – Similar to “卒業者,” this term refers to a graduate. Although it is derived from the more formal version, “卒業せい” is frequently used in less formal settings when talking about classmates or friends who have graduated. You might say, “卒業生との再会が楽しみだ” (Sotsugyōsei to no saikai ga tanoshimi da), which translates to “I’m looking forward to meeting with my fellow graduates.”
Regional Variations
While Japanese is primarily spoken throughout Japan, regional variations do exist. However, for the phrase “graduate,” these regional differences are minor and largely negligible. The terms discussed above can be understood and used across the country without raising any significant linguistic discrepancies.
Additional Tips and Examples
Now that you know how to say “graduate” in Japanese, here are a few additional tips and examples to help you use these phrases more effectively:
If you want to congratulate someone who has graduated, you can say “おめでとうございます！卒業おめでとう！” (Omedetō gozaimasu! Sotsugyō omedetō!). This translates to “Congratulations! Congratulations on your graduation!”
When discussing your own graduation, it is common to include the specific level of education. For instance, you might say “高校を卒業しました” (Kōkō o sotsugyō shimashita) to mean “I graduated from high school.”
Remember, the level of formality should be adjusted based on the context and the relation you have with the person you’re conversing with. Utilize the appropriate expressions accordingly.
While “卒業する” is the go-to phrase for “graduate,” it’s always beneficial to expand your vocabulary. Learning related words and phrases like “入学” (nyūgaku, entrance/enroll), “就職” (shūshoku, find employment), or “研究” (kenkyū, research/study) can further enrich your Japanese proficiency.
In Conclusion
Congratulations once again on your achievement! Now that you possess a comprehensive understanding of how to say “graduate” in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can confidently navigate conversations and express your educational accomplishments. Remember to pay attention to the context and level of formality, and don’t hesitate to expand your linguistic skills by exploring related vocabulary. Best of luck with your future endeavors!
