Spanish word

graduar

Pronunciation

IPA/gɾaˈðwaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbaward

Example

La universidad graduó a la investigadora con un doctorado.

The university awarded the researcher a doctorate.

Illustration for graduar (award)

More examples

Antes de grabar, gradué el volumen del micrófono.

Before recording, I adjusted the microphone volume.

Core concept

A professor placing an academic hood over a candidate.

Common phrases

  • graduar la intensidad

    adjust the intensity

  • graduar el volumen

    adjust the volume

  • graduar la temperatura

    adjust the temperature

Similar words

conferir: Confers academic degrees or titles in a formal, ceremonial setting.
otorgar: Bestows something official (an award, right, or resource) by authority.
conceder: Grants or allows a request, permission, or right as an official act.
graduarse: Completes studies and is awarded a degree; becomes a graduate.

Definition in Spanish

Dar oficialmente a una persona un grado académico o título; en contextos técnicos, ajustar o calibrar el nivel o la intensidad de un aparato o una escala.

Word origin

From Latin gradus 'step, rank', the verb reflects giving a formal rank or step and so came to mean award an academic degree as well as to mark or set graduated intervals.

Usage tips

  • Regional usage varies for saying someone 'graduates': many speakers use graduarse de + institution in Latin America, while graduarse en + subject or institution is common in Spain.

Other meanings

  • graduateverb
  • adjustverb

Related words

Word lists with this word