School / A2

di-PLOHM-uh/dɪˈpləʊmə/

A diploma is an official paper for finishing a course: a diploma in design, receive a diploma, a college diploma. A degree is usually a longer university award. A certificate can be for a shorter course. Diploma is countable: two diplomas. Do not use diploma for a diplomat (a government representative).

Meaning

An official paper that shows you have finished a course of study.

Examples

• “He received a diploma in business last year.”
• “She framed her diploma and hung it in the office.”
• “This diploma takes two years of part-time study.”

Good to know

a diploma in + subject. Contrast: degree (university), certificate (often shorter). Mix-up: diplomat.

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