The term "commencement" refers to the official start or beginning of an event, process, or a new period. For example, it could signify the commencement of a new project or a new academic year. More specifically, in an educational context, "commencement" is the ceremony where students receive their degrees or diplomas after completing their studies. This marks the formal beginning of their post-academic lives or careers.
The noun commencement refers to the formal genesis or official inauguration of an event, process, or a specific temporal span. This term frequently denotes the ceremonial occasion where academic degrees or diplomas are formally bestowed upon graduating students. It encapsulates the significant moment of transition from one state to another, often carrying a sense of institutional formality and celebratory recognition. Therefore, it signifies not merely a start, but a distinguished and often publicly acknowledged initiation. Understanding its dual application to general beginnings and specific academic ceremonies is key.
The term commencement, beyond its more common understanding as a formal inception or the initiation of an event, carries a nuanced significance, particularly within academic contexts. It denotes the ceremonial occasion where scholastic achievements are recognized and degrees are officially bestowed upon graduating students, marking not merely an end but rather a profound transition to a new phase of life or professional endeavor. This event, steeped in tradition and often involving elaborate rituals, symbolizes the culmination of rigorous study and the promising dawn of future prospects. Thus, commencement encapsulates both the formal beginning of a new chapter and the celebratory acknowledgement of past accomplishments.
commencement in 30 Sekunden
- formal beginning
- official start
- graduation ceremony
§ What Does "Commencement" Mean?
- Definition
- The formal or official beginning of something, such as an event, process, or period. It is also commonly used to refer specifically to a ceremony where degrees or diplomas are conferred upon graduating students.
The word "commencement" carries a sense of formality and significance. At its core, it signifies the official start of something important. While it can apply to a wide range of situations, its most prominent usage is undoubtedly in the context of academic graduation ceremonies. This dual meaning often causes a bit of confusion, but understanding the nuances can help you use the word correctly and confidently.
§ Commencement as a Beginning
Beyond the academic realm, "commencement" can refer to the start of any formal event, process, or period. Think of it as a more formal and somewhat grander way to say "beginning" or "start."
Here are some examples of its general use:
- The commencement of a new government's term.
- The commencement of construction on a major project.
- The commencement of legal proceedings.
The commencement of the trial was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
We anticipate the commencement of renovations next month.
§ Commencement as a Graduation Ceremony
This is arguably the most common and widely recognized use of the word. In educational institutions, "commencement" refers to the ceremony where students officially receive their academic degrees or diplomas. It's a momentous occasion marking the end of their studies and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Key characteristics of a commencement ceremony include:
- The formal presentation of diplomas.
- Speeches from faculty, dignitaries, and sometimes students.
- Graduates wearing academic regalia (caps and gowns).
- A celebration of academic achievement.
My sister is looking forward to her college commencement ceremony next spring.
The commencement speaker delivered an inspiring message to the graduating class.
§ When Do People Use "Commencement"?
People use "commencement" when they want to convey a sense of formality, officialdom, or a significant turning point. It's not a casual word for any old start; it implies a structured or institutionalized beginning. Here's a breakdown:
- Academic Context: This is by far the most frequent use. If you're talking about a graduation ceremony, "commencement" is the precise and formal term.
- Legal Context: In legal jargon, "commencement" is used to refer to the official start of legal proceedings, a trial, or a new law coming into effect.
- Formal Project or Event Launches: For large-scale projects, official events, or the start of a new phase, "commencement" can be used to emphasize the formal initiation.
- Historical or Political Events: When discussing the beginning of significant historical periods or political terms, "commencement" lends a dignified tone.
Understanding "commencement" at the B1 CEFR level means recognizing its formal nature and its two primary applications: a general formal beginning and, more importantly, a graduation ceremony. Using it correctly will enhance your vocabulary and help you communicate with greater precision, especially in academic and formal settings.
§ Understanding Commencement in Context
The word "commencement" is a formal noun, primarily referring to the beginning of something significant or to a graduation ceremony. While its core meaning is straightforward, its usage often carries a sense of formality, officiality, or importance. Understanding its nuances in comparison to similar words can help you choose the most precise term for your context.
§ Similar Words and Their Distinctions
Let's explore some words that are close in meaning to "commencement" but are used in different situations or with slightly different connotations.
- Beginning
- This is the most general term for the first part of something. It can be used for anything from a casual conversation to a historical era. Unlike "commencement," "beginning" doesn't necessarily imply formality or official status.
The beginning of the movie was slow, but it got better.
- Start
- Similar to "beginning," "start" is also very general and can be used for a wide range of situations. It often implies a more active or immediate initiation than "beginning."
Let's start the meeting now.
- Inauguration
- This word is highly specific and refers to the formal admission of someone to office or the ceremonial opening of a public institution or building. It carries a strong sense of official ceremony and public importance, often more so than "commencement."
The presidential inauguration was a grand event.
- Onset
- "Onset" usually refers to the beginning of something, especially something unpleasant or difficult, like a disease or a period of bad weather. It often implies a sudden or forceful start.
The onset of winter brought harsh conditions.
- Outset
- "Outset" refers to the very beginning of an enterprise, journey, or project. It often emphasizes the initial stages or intentions. It's more formal than "beginning" or "start" but less ceremonial than "commencement" in its general use.
From the outset, the project faced many challenges.
§ When to Use "Commencement"
"Commencement" is particularly apt in two main scenarios:
Formal or Official Beginnings: When you want to convey that something is starting in a formal, official, or significant manner, "commencement" is a strong choice. This could be the commencement of a new policy, a legal process, a construction project, or a new phase in an organization's history.
The company announced the commencement of its new sustainable energy initiative.
Graduation Ceremonies: This is perhaps the most common and widely recognized use of the word. A commencement ceremony is the formal event where students receive their degrees or diplomas, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
She was excited to attend her university's commencement ceremony.
How Formal Is It?
"The commencement of the new fiscal year brings with it new financial regulations."
"The start of the concert is scheduled for 8 PM."
"The kick-off of the project is next Monday, so we need to be ready."
"At the beginning of the story, the little bear was very sleepy."
"From the get-go, I knew this was going to be a great day."
Wichtige Grammatik
Nouns can be either singular or plural. 'Commencement' is a singular noun.
The commencement of the new project was met with enthusiasm.
Nouns can be modified by adjectives. For example, 'grand commencement'.
The grand commencement ceremony marked the end of their academic journey.
Nouns can act as the subject or object of a sentence. In 'The commencement was scheduled for May', 'commencement' is the subject.
We attended the commencement, which was held in the university auditorium.
Nouns can be followed by a prepositional phrase to provide more information. For instance, 'commencement of the reforms'.
The commencement of the reforms brought about significant changes.
The definite article 'the' is often used before 'commencement' when referring to a specific ceremony or event.
The commencement speaker delivered an inspiring address.
Grammatikmuster
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
"To get off to a flying start"
To begin something very successfully.
The new project got off to a flying start with all team members enthusiastically contributing.
neutral"To hit the ground running"
To start a new job or activity with great energy and enthusiasm and immediately be effective.
She hit the ground running in her new role, immediately making valuable contributions.
neutral"From the word go"
From the very beginning.
He had problems with the new software from the word go.
informal"To set the ball rolling"
To start an activity or process.
Let's set the ball rolling by discussing the main objectives of the meeting.
neutral"To break the ice"
To make people who have not met before feel more relaxed and comfortable with each other.
A few jokes helped to break the ice at the start of the conference.
neutral"To get the show on the road"
To begin an activity or process that has been planned.
We've done enough planning, now it's time to get the show on the road.
informal"To kick off"
To begin (often used for events, sports matches, or discussions).
The festival will kick off with a parade through the city center.
neutral"To turn over a new leaf"
To start afresh; to change one's behavior for the better.
After a difficult year, she decided to turn over a new leaf and focus on her well-being.
neutral"To lay the groundwork"
To do the preparatory work for something.
They spent months laying the groundwork for the peace talks.
formal"To embark on"
To start a new and important journey or undertaking.
He decided to embark on a career in medicine after graduating.
formalSatzmuster
The commencement of the new project is scheduled for next month.
The commencement of the new project is scheduled for next month.
The university's commencement ceremony will be held in the main auditorium.
The university's commencement ceremony will be held in the main auditorium.
We are all looking forward to the commencement of the summer holidays.
We are all looking forward to the commencement of the summer holidays.
The commencement speech was inspiring for all the graduates.
The commencement speech was inspiring for all the graduates.
They announced the commencement of negotiations between the two countries.
They announced the commencement of negotiations between the two countries.
The new policy will take effect from the commencement of the next fiscal year.
The new policy will take effect from the commencement of the next fiscal year.
She received her diploma at the commencement ceremony.
She received her diploma at the commencement ceremony.
The construction work is nearing its commencement.
The construction work is nearing its commencement.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
So verwendest du es
The term commencement is often associated with academic settings, referring to graduation ceremonies. However, it can also be used in a broader sense to denote the start of any significant event or process. For example, you could talk about the 'commencement of a new project' or the 'commencement of legal proceedings.' While formal, it's generally understood and appropriate in various contexts.
A common mistake is to confuse commencement with 'conclusion' or 'culmination.' While it marks a significant event, it specifically refers to the *beginning* of something, not its end. Another mistake might be using it in overly casual conversation where a simpler word like 'start' or 'beginning' would be more natural. For instance, saying 'the commencement of my day' sounds overly formal when 'the start of my day' is more common.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenSome common synonyms for commencement include beginning, start, inauguration, inception, and outset.
While commencement means beginning, it often implies a more formal or official start. For everyday beginnings, words like 'start' or 'beginning' might be more suitable.
No, while commencement is very commonly associated with graduation ceremonies, it can also refer to the formal beginning of other events, processes, or periods, like the commencement of a new project or a legal proceeding.
Both refer to a beginning. Commencement often implies a formal public event, like a graduation. 'Initiation' can refer to a beginning, but it can also specifically mean a ritual or process of introducing someone to a group or activity, often with special rites.
The word commencement comes from Old French and Latin, meaning 'to begin' or 'to undertake'.
While technically correct, it's not the most natural usage. 'Start of the game' or 'kick-off' would be much more common and idiomatic for a sports game. Commencement usually implies a more formal or significant beginning.
Yes, the verb form is commence, meaning 'to begin' or 'to start'.
The most common phrase is 'commencement ceremony' or 'commencement address', specifically in the context of graduation. You might also hear 'commencement of hostilities' in a military or conflict context.
It's pronounced /kəˈmensmənt/. The stress is on the second syllable.
Generally, no. Commencement suggests a significant, formal, or official beginning. For informal starts, simpler words like 'start' or 'beginning' are preferred.
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The party will ___ at 7 PM.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Start' means beginning.
School ___ is in September.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Begin' means beginning.
The race will ___ soon.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Begin' means beginning.
The movie ___ at 8 o'clock.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Starts' means beginning.
The concert will ___ in 10 minutes.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Start' means beginning.
My class ___ at 9 AM.
Commencement means the beginning of something. 'Begins' means beginning.
The ___ of the school year is always exciting.
'Commencement' means the beginning of something, which fits the context of a school year starting.
We are planning a party for the ___ of the new project.
A 'commencement' marks the formal beginning, so it's suitable for a new project.
The university holds a grand ___ ceremony every summer.
Universities hold 'commencement' ceremonies for graduating students.
The ___ of the play was announced for 7 PM.
The 'commencement' refers to the start of the play.
Everyone cheered at the ___ of the marathon.
The 'commencement' is the starting point of the marathon.
The new law's ___ will be next month.
The 'commencement' of a law refers to when it officially begins or takes effect.
Listen for when the ceremony is.
Listen for what is starting.
Listen for what kind of speech it was.
Read this aloud:
The commencement of the new school year is always exciting.
Focus: commencement
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I attended my friend's commencement ceremony.
Focus: attended, ceremony
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What is the date of your commencement?
Focus: date, commencement
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The university's annual ___ ceremony is always a proud moment for graduates and their families.
Commencement refers to the ceremony where degrees are conferred.
The ___ of the new project is scheduled for next month.
Commencement means the formal beginning of something.
After years of hard work, the students eagerly awaited the ___ of their academic journey.
In this context, commencement refers to the graduation ceremony, marking the formal beginning of their next life stage.
The formal ___ of the meeting was delayed due to technical issues.
Commencement can mean the formal beginning of an event.
She felt a mix of excitement and nervousness at the ___ of her new career.
Commencement signifies the start of something new, like a career.
The school celebrates its annual ___ with a big party for all the graduates.
Commencement specifically refers to the graduation ceremony.
This sentence correctly orders the words to form a coherent statement about a commencement ceremony.
This sentence correctly orders the words to describe preparation for a commencement.
This sentence correctly orders the words to state when a project will begin.
Imagine you are attending a university commencement ceremony. Describe the atmosphere, the main events, and your feelings about the occasion in a short paragraph.
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Sample answer
The commencement ceremony was a truly inspiring event. The air was buzzing with excitement as graduates, adorned in their caps and gowns, eagerly awaited their degrees. Speeches from distinguished faculty members offered both reflection on past achievements and encouragement for future endeavors. Watching friends and classmates walk across the stage filled me with a sense of pride and optimism for what lies ahead.
Write a sentence using 'commencement' to refer to the beginning of a significant project or initiative in a professional context.
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Sample answer
The official commencement of the new sustainability initiative marks a pivotal moment for the company's environmental strategy.
Describe a personal 'commencement' or a significant new beginning in your life, explaining what led to it and its impact.
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Sample answer
My move to a new city marked the commencement of a completely different chapter in my life. After years in my hometown, I felt a strong urge for new experiences and challenges. This change led to a significant personal growth, allowing me to explore new interests and build a diverse network of friends.
What is a key activity for businesses at the commencement of a new fiscal year?
Read this passage:
The commencement of the new fiscal year always brings a period of strategic planning and budget allocation for most businesses. It's a critical time for setting objectives and outlining the path forward. For employees, it often means new projects and updated performance goals, making it a demanding yet exciting period.
What is a key activity for businesses at the commencement of a new fiscal year?
The passage explicitly states that 'The commencement of the new fiscal year always brings a period of strategic planning and budget allocation for most businesses.'
The passage explicitly states that 'The commencement of the new fiscal year always brings a period of strategic planning and budget allocation for most businesses.'
What is the primary significance of a university commencement ceremony?
Read this passage:
University commencement ceremonies are deeply symbolic events, representing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication for students. They are not merely formalities but serve as powerful rites of passage, affirming academic achievements and preparing graduates for their professional lives. Families and friends gather to celebrate, acknowledging the significant milestone.
What is the primary significance of a university commencement ceremony?
The passage states that ceremonies 'represent the culmination of years of hard work and dedication' and 'serve as powerful rites of passage, affirming academic achievements'.
The passage states that ceremonies 'represent the culmination of years of hard work and dedication' and 'serve as powerful rites of passage, affirming academic achievements'.
What was the original meaning of 'commencement' in medieval universities?
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The ancient tradition of 'commencement' as a university ceremony dates back to medieval Europe, where it marked the formal admission of a scholar to the academic community, granting them the ability to 'commence' teaching. Over centuries, while the specific rituals have evolved, the core purpose of recognizing academic achievement and preparing individuals for their next societal role has remained constant.
What was the original meaning of 'commencement' in medieval universities?
The passage explains that it 'marked the formal admission of a scholar to the academic community, granting them the ability to 'commence' teaching'.
The passage explains that it 'marked the formal admission of a scholar to the academic community, granting them the ability to 'commence' teaching'.
The CEO announced that the project's official ___ would be next quarter, marking a significant milestone for the company.
Commencement refers to the beginning of something. In this context, it signifies the start of the project.
Despite the initial challenges, the ___ of the new policy brought about a positive shift in employee morale and productivity.
Inception is a synonym for commencement, meaning the beginning of something, especially a process or idea.
The university's annual ___ ceremony is a joyous occasion where graduates celebrate their academic achievements.
Convocation is another term specifically used for a formal assembly, especially one for conferring degrees, which is a common meaning of commencement.
The sudden ___ of hostilities took everyone by surprise, leading to a swift diplomatic response.
Outbreak means the sudden start of something unwelcome, such as war or disease, fitting the context of 'commencement' of hostilities.
The architect presented a detailed plan for the ___ of construction, outlining the phases and timelines involved.
Initiation refers to the act of beginning something, making it a suitable synonym for commencement in the context of construction.
As the ___ of the new fiscal year approached, the finance team finalized their budget projections.
Advent means the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event, and can be used to signify the beginning of a period, such as a fiscal year.
Focus on understanding the context of a graduation ceremony.
Consider the meaning of 'commencement' in a project context.
Think about 'commencement' in a legal setting.
Read this aloud:
The commencement of the new fiscal year always brings with it a wave of strategic planning and budget re-evaluations.
Focus: commencement, fiscal, strategic, re-evaluations
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After years of dedicated study, the commencement of her medical career was a dream realized, filled with both excitement and trepidation.
Focus: commencement, dedicated, realized, trepidation
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Read this aloud:
The university's annual commencement address is often delivered by a distinguished alumnus, inspiring graduates with stories of their own career journeys.
Focus: commencement, delivered, distinguished, alumnus, inspiring
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This sentence describes the formal beginning of a project.
This sentence refers to the graduation ceremony.
This sentence uses 'commencement' to mean the beginning of negotiations.
Compose a critical analysis, exploring the symbolic significance of a 'commencement' ceremony in contemporary educational systems. Discuss its role in fostering a sense of achievement, community, and future aspirations among graduates, while also considering potential criticisms regarding its perceived outdatedness or commercialization.
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Sample answer
The commencement ceremony, far from being a mere formality, acts as a potent symbolic cornerstone within contemporary educational frameworks. It crystallizes years of rigorous academic endeavor into a singular, celebratory event, fostering an indispensable sense of achievement for graduates. Beyond individual triumph, it cultivates a palpable sense of community, uniting students, faculty, and families in shared celebration and reflecting on collective journeys. Crucially, it serves as a launchpad for future aspirations, marking a definitive transition from academic pursuits to professional or further educational endeavors. However, the modern commencement is not without its detractors. Critics often point to its perceived outdatedness, questioning its relevance in an increasingly digital and informal world. Furthermore, concerns about the commercialization of these events, with their often exorbitant costs for regalia and merchandise, raise valid questions about accessibility and true celebratory spirit. A nuanced analysis, therefore, must acknowledge both its enduring power as a rite of passage and the ongoing need for its evolution to remain truly meaningful.
You are a university president drafting a speech for a commencement ceremony. Write an excerpt of your speech, focusing on the theme of 'new beginnings' and the responsibilities that come with advanced education. Incorporate rhetorical devices such as metaphor and anaphora to enhance impact.
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Sample answer
Graduates, today marks not merely the end of a chapter, but the vibrant commencement of an entirely new narrative. This day is not just a ceremony; it is a launchpad. It is not just a moment; it is a movement. You stand now on the precipice of profound possibilities, armed not only with degrees but with the immense privilege and equally immense responsibility that accompanies such advanced education. The world awaits your intellect, your innovation, your empathy. The world needs your courage to challenge the status quo. The world needs your commitment to build a more just and sustainable future. Go forth, illuminate the path, and remember that with every privilege comes a profound obligation to serve, to lead, to inspire.
Imagine you are an alumni reflecting on your own university commencement. Write a descriptive paragraph detailing the atmosphere, your personal feelings, and one significant memory from that day, emphasizing the emotional resonance of the 'commencement' experience.
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Sample answer
The air on that commencement day was a heady mix of anticipation and relief, thick with the scent of blooming spring flowers and the rustle of academic gowns. A palpable electricity hummed through the crowd, a collective exhalation after years of intense study. Personally, I oscillated between elation at the culmination of my academic journey and a bittersweet pang of apprehension for the uncharted territory ahead. My most vivid memory remains the brief, powerful moment my name was called and I crossed the stage; it wasn't just a handshake and a rolled-up scroll, but a silent, profound acknowledgement of every late night, every challenge overcome. That single step felt like a bridge, a powerful, almost spiritual transition into a future brimming with both daunting unknowns and thrilling potential, sealing the emotional resonance of that extraordinary commencement.
According to the passage, what is the enduring significance of a commencement ceremony despite its evolution?
Read this passage:
The annual commencement ceremony at prestigious universities has evolved over centuries, from modest gatherings to elaborate spectacles. While the core purpose—to officially mark the completion of studies and confer degrees—remains steadfast, the rituals and traditions surrounding these events often reflect prevailing societal values and pedagogical philosophies. For many, it signifies not merely an academic milestone, but a profound rite of passage, a symbolic shedding of student identity in favor of a burgeoning professional or scholarly persona.
According to the passage, what is the enduring significance of a commencement ceremony despite its evolution?
The passage explicitly states that 'the core purpose—to officially mark the completion of studies and confer degrees—remains steadfast,' indicating its enduring significance.
The passage explicitly states that 'the core purpose—to officially mark the completion of studies and confer degrees—remains steadfast,' indicating its enduring significance.
What is the primary implication of the 'commencement' of legal proceedings?
Read this passage:
In legal contexts, the 'commencement' of proceedings refers to the formal initiation of a lawsuit or legal action. This initial step triggers a cascade of procedural requirements, setting into motion the intricate machinery of the justice system. The precise definition of commencement can vary depending on jurisdiction and the specific type of legal action, often involving the filing of a complaint or petition with the appropriate court. Understanding this crucial legal concept is fundamental for navigating litigation.
What is the primary implication of the 'commencement' of legal proceedings?
The passage states that the commencement of proceedings 'triggers a cascade of procedural requirements, setting into motion the intricate machinery of the justice system.'
The passage states that the commencement of proceedings 'triggers a cascade of procedural requirements, setting into motion the intricate machinery of the justice system.'
What makes identifying the exact 'commencement' point of an artistic movement difficult?
Read this passage:
The 'commencement' of a new artistic movement often emerges from a period of creative ferment and dissatisfaction with existing paradigms. These seminal moments are rarely sudden; rather, they are typically preceded by subtle shifts in artistic thought, experimental practices, and intellectual discourse. Identifying the exact 'commencement' point can be challenging, as it often involves a retrospective interpretation of historical trends and the influence of key figures whose innovations coalesce into a distinct aesthetic or philosophical departure.
What makes identifying the exact 'commencement' point of an artistic movement difficult?
The passage explains that 'identifying the exact 'commencement' point can be challenging, as it often involves a retrospective interpretation of historical trends and the influence of key figures whose innovations coalesce into a distinct aesthetic or philosophical departure.' It also notes that these moments 'are rarely sudden' and are 'typically preceded by subtle shifts'.
The passage explains that 'identifying the exact 'commencement' point can be challenging, as it often involves a retrospective interpretation of historical trends and the influence of key figures whose innovations coalesce into a distinct aesthetic or philosophical departure.' It also notes that these moments 'are rarely sudden' and are 'typically preceded by subtle shifts'.
This exercise tests the ability to correctly order words to form a grammatically sound and contextually appropriate sentence using 'commencement' in the sense of a beginning.
This exercise assesses the understanding of 'commencement' in the context of a graduation ceremony and the ability to construct a coherent sentence.
This exercise focuses on the use of 'commencement' to denote the start of a period and the ordering of words for a complex sentence structure.
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Summary
Commencement signifies the official start of an event or period, most notably the ceremony celebrating student graduation.
- formal beginning
- official start
- graduation ceremony
