Graduation season is a time of excitement and new beginnings. For students of the Chinese language, it’s also an excellent opportunity to expand their vocabulary. Whether you’re attending a Chinese university or simply interested in learning about this important life stage, here are some essential Chinese words and phrases related to university graduation.![]() 1. Graduation 毕业 (bì yè) This is the most fundamental term. 毕业 means the completion of your studies at a university. It’s a moment when years of hard work come to fruition. 2. Graduation Ceremony 毕业典礼 (bì yè lǐ dǐng) The 毕业典礼 is a formal event where graduates receive their diplomas. It’s a celebration of their achievements. You might hear, “The 毕业典礼 will be held in the university auditorium,” which means “The graduation ceremony will be held in the university auditorium.” 3. Diploma 毕业证书(bì yè zhèng shū) This is the official document that certifies your graduation. It’s something every graduate looks forward to receiving. For instance, “I proudly showed my 毕业证书 to my family” means “I proudly showed my diploma to my family.” 4. Thesis 毕业论文 (bì yè lùn wén) Many university programs require students to write a 毕业论文. This is a research paper that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in your field of study. You could say, “I spent months working on my 毕业论文” which translates to “I spent months working on my thesis.” 5. Graduation Photos 毕业照 (bì yè zhào) These are the photos taken during graduation. They often include group shots with classmates and professors. A common phrase might be, “We took lots of 毕业照 to remember this special time,” meaning “We took lots of graduation photos to remember this special time.” 6. Job Hunting 找工作 (zhǎo gōng zuò) After graduation, many students start looking for jobs. 找工作 is an important activity during this period. For example, “I’ve been 找工作 for a few weeks now” means “I’ve been job hunting for a few weeks now.” 7. Alumni 校友 (xiào yǒu) These are former students of a university. 校友 play a significant role in the university community. You might hear, “The university organized a gathering for 校友,” which means “The university organized a gathering for alumni.” 8. Farewell Party 告别派对 (gào bié pài duì) Before leaving university, students often have a 告别派对 to say goodbye to their friends and teachers. It’s a time to share memories and express gratitude. For example, “We threw a 告别派对 to celebrate the end of our university life,” meaning “We threw a farewell party to celebrate the end of our university life.” 9. Future Plans 未来计划 (wèi lái jì huà) Graduation is a time to think about what comes next. 未来计划 refers to the goals and aspirations you have for your future. You could say, “I have many 未来计划 after graduation,” which means “I have many future plans after graduation.” 10. Teacher’s Blessing 老师的祝福 (lǎo shī de fú zhù) Teachers often give 祝福 to their students at graduation. It’s a heartfelt wish for their success and happiness. For example, “Our teachers gave us lots of 祝福 at the graduation ceremony,” meaning “Our teachers gave us lots of blessings at the graduation ceremony.” Learning these words and phrases will not only help you understand the language but also give you a deeper insight into the culture and traditions surrounding university graduation in China. Whether you’re a student about to graduate or someone interested in Chinese culture, these terms are sure to enrich your knowledge. |