major de promotion
masculine
The English phrase 'valedictorian' can be translated into French as major de promotion. If unsure, use major de promotion. Wiktionary also lists major.
Meaning: no 1 student (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| major de promotion | masculine | |
| major | /ma.ʒɔʁ/ | masculine |
This term is used to identify the student with the highest academic ranking in a graduating class.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'major of the promotion', where 'promotion' refers to a graduating class or cohort.
Which one should you use?
While the English 'valedictorian' often implies the person who gives the farewell speech, major de promotion specifically refers to the student with the highest academic rank.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word major is a masculine noun. The phrase major de promotion is also masculine.
Did you know?
- The word major is a linguistic doublet of the French word majeur, which refers to someone who has reached the legal age of adulthood.
- In a French military context, the word major refers to a specific high-ranking non-commissioned officer, such as an 'adjudant-major', rather than a student.
- In French academic circles, the title of major is often used as a shorthand, removing the de promotion part entirely while remaining perfectly clear.
Examples in context
- Il a terminé major de promotion.He graduated at the top of his class.
- Il a été major de promotion.He was the valedictorian.
- Le major de promotion reçoit un prix.The valedictorian receives a prize.
- Elle veut devenir major de promotion.She wants to become the valedictorian.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their graduation results.
- HugoAs-tu vu les résultats, Léa ?Did you see the results, Léa?
- LéaOui, Hugo est le major de promotion !Yes, Hugo is the valedictorian!
- HugoC'est vrai ? Je suis très fier.Really? I am very proud.
- LéaFélicite-le pour son travail.Congratulate him on his work.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “valedictorian” translations and entries major, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, major, promotion, CC BY-SA 4.0.
