commencement

Everyday

1. (formal) Commencement is the beginning or start of something. tree →
2. (US, Canada) A commencement is a graduation ceremony at a school or university, when students get their diplomas. tree →

In the lessons

In formal notices and exams: "the commencement of the lesson", "before commencement of the exam". In the USA, commencement speeches are given at graduation. Phrases: commencement of, commencement ceremony, commencement speech.

Examples

• No talking after the commencement of the test. tree →
• The commencement of building work was delayed. tree →
• My cousin's commencement was held in the gym. tree →
• She gave a commencement speech to the graduates. tree →
• Arrive 10 minutes before the commencement of the match. tree →
• Commencement is at 10 a.m. sharp. tree →
• The commencement of spring brings longer days. tree →
• Please switch off phones before commencement. tree →
• "My own son and the son of my chief vizier!" exclaimed the king, who had been present from the commencement. tree →

Note

Formal; everyday word: start, beginning. Verb: commence (formal for start). Spelling: double m, -ment. Trap: in the US it is an end (graduation), but the word means a beginning (of adult life).