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Commencement - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Commencement refers to the beginning or start of something, such as an event, process, or period. It is also commonly used to describe graduation ceremonies marking the start of a new life stage.

commencement

/kəˈmɛnsmənt/ /kəˈmɛnsmənt/

Definition:

The beginning or start of something, especially a formal event or process.

Synonyms:

start, initiation, inception, outset

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

conclusion, termination

Common Collocations:

graduation ceremony, academic year, official proceedings, keynote speech

Derivatives:

commence, commencing, recommencement

Usage Tips:

Use "commencement" for formal beginnings like ceremonies or processes; avoid for casual starts like daily routines.

Common Phrases:

commencement address, commencement ceremony, commencement day

Etymology:

From Old French "comencement," derived from Latin "cominitiare," meaning to begin or initiate.

Examples:

  • 1. The commencement of the project was delayed by bad weather.
  • 2. She delivered a speech at her college commencement last spring.
  • 3. The treaty marked the commencement of peaceful relations between the nations.
  • 4. Everyone gathered for the commencement of the annual conference.

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