j'ai obtenu mon diplôme
In French, "I graduated" is expressed as j'ai obtenu mon diplôme.
The phrase j'ai obtenu mon diplôme is the most natural way to state that you have completed your studies and received your degree during a conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase j'ai obtenu mon diplôme literally translates to "I have obtained my diploma".
Which one should you use?
Je suis diplômé(e) means "I am a graduate". For a more casual tone, you can use the informal expression J'ai décroché mon diplôme, which means "I landed my degree".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase j'ai obtenu mon diplôme uses the passé composé tense to express a completed action in the past.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using je suis gradué. This is an anglicism created by translating "I am graduated" literally, and it is incorrect in standard French.
Did you know?
- The word diplôme originates from the Ancient Greek word δίπλωμα, which referred to a document folded in two.
- In French, the verb graduer is never used for education. Instead, it refers to marking a physical scale, such as those found on a thermometer or a ruler.
- French speakers distinguish between being a diplômé, which simply means holding the degree, and being a lauréat. The latter implies a higher level of prestige, suggesting the person was an honored student or a winner.
Examples in context
- J'ai obtenu mon diplôme en littérature française.I obtained my degree in French literature.
- Je suis diplômé(e) en économie.I am a graduate in economics.
- J'ai fini mes études en médecine.I finished my studies in medicine.
- J'ai obtenu mon diplôme en juin.I graduated in June.
- Enfin, j'ai obtenu mon diplôme !Finally, I graduated!
- J'ai obtenu mon diplôme après trois ans d'études.I graduated after three years of study.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Léa are celebrating at a cafe after a graduation ceremony.
- GabrielJe suis tellement heureux, j'ai obtenu mon diplôme !I am so happy, I graduated!
- LéaFélicitations Gabriel, c'est une grande étape.Congratulations Gabriel, it is a big step.
- GabrielMerci Léa, je suis soulagé.Thanks Léa, I am relieved.
- LéaTu mérites de fêter ça avec nous.You deserve to celebrate this with us.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries diplôme, j'ai, mon, CC BY-SA 4.0.
