How to Say Graduating Class: A Guide for Formal and Informal Settings

Graduation is an important milestone in everyone’s academic journey. It is a time to celebrate achievements, bid farewell to school or college, and, of course, refer to your class. Depending on the setting, there are various ways to say “graduating class.” In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of referring to a graduating class, offering tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.

Formal Ways to Say Graduating Class

When speaking in formal settings, such as official ceremonies, speeches, or academic events, it’s important to use appropriate and respectful language. Here are some formal phrases you can use to refer to a graduating class:

1. Graduating Class – This is the most straightforward and widely recognized term. It is suitable for any formal occasion and is often used in official announcements, invitations, or speeches. For example, “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in celebrating the graduating class of 2022.”
2. Class of [year] – A classic phrase, commonly used in academic contexts. It signifies the year in which a particular class is completing their studies. For instance, “We are proud to honor the accomplishments of the Class of 2022.”
3. Class of [year] Graduates – This phrase emphasizes the achievement of completing the educational program. It can be used interchangeably with “graduating class.” For example, “The Class of 2022 graduates have worked diligently to reach this significant milestone.”
4. Senior Class – Often used in high schools and colleges, this term specifically highlights the final year or “senior” year of students. It refers to the group of students who are about to graduate. For instance, “The senior class has shown exceptional leadership and commitment throughout their time at this institution.”

Informal Ways to Say Graduating Class

In informal settings, such as conversations among students, friends, or family, you can use more casual and relaxed expressions to refer to a graduating class. Here are some examples:

1. Graduating Crew – This phrase adds a sense of camaraderie and togetherness. It suggests that the students have gone through their academic journey as a tight-knit group. For example, “Hey, graduating crew! Let’s have an epic celebration to mark this special occasion!”
2. Grad Squad – A trendy and youthful expression to refer to the graduating class. It suggests a feeling of shared accomplishment and celebration. For instance, “Our grad squad is ready to take on the world! Cheers to the Class of 2022!”
3. Classmates – A simple and widely understood way to refer to the group of students who are graduating together. This term is commonly used in informal conversations and social media posts. For example, “I’m so proud of my classmates! We did it, guys!”
4. Grad Pals – A playful phrase to refer to your friends or fellow students who are part of your graduating class. It adds a sense of friendship and fun. For instance, “To all my grad pals out there, we finally made it! Let’s cherish these memories forever!”

Regional Variations

While the phrases mentioned above are widely used across various English-speaking regions, there may be some regional variations in how people refer to graduating classes. Here are a few examples:

Auld Reekie Class – In the Scottish city of Edinburgh, the term “Auld Reekie Class” is used colloquially to refer to the graduating class. The term originates from the city’s nickname “Auld Reekie,” meaning “Old Smoky,” due to the historical presence of industrial chimney smoke.

Sixth Form Leavers – In parts of the United Kingdom, particularly England, the graduating class in sixth form education is often referred to as “Sixth Form Leavers.” This term specifically indicates the stage of education prior to entering university.

Tips for Using These Phrases

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using the phrases mentioned above to refer to a graduating class:

• Context Matters – Consider the setting, audience, and formality of the occasion. Choose the most appropriate phrase accordingly.
• Be Inclusive – Ensure that the chosen phrase includes all the students who are part of the graduating class to avoid unintentional exclusions.
• Personalize Your Message – Feel free to add personal touches or inside jokes when using informal expressions among friends or classmates to make the message more meaningful.
• Use Social Media Effectively – Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to share graduation-related posts and messages. Consider using hashtags, tagging your classmates, or utilizing relevant emojis to enhance your posts.

Remember, the key is to celebrate and honor the achievements of a graduating class while maintaining a warm and positive tone throughout your expression.

To conclude, there are various ways to say “graduating class” depending on the formality and context of the situation. Whether you opt for formal phrases like “Graduating Class” or more informal expressions like “Graduating Crew,” the most important thing is to celebrate the accomplishments of the students who have reached this significant milestone. Cheers to all the graduates!