grade inflation

noun

: a rise in the average grade assigned to students
especially : the assigning of grades higher than previously assigned for given levels of achievement

Examples of grade inflation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The move aims to curb grade inflation and revive meaningfully selective transcripts. — Leah Willingham, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2026 The usual response is to clap, which the phenomenon of grade inflation is turning into routine standing ovations. — Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 8 June 2026 Reversing grade inflation would be the most direct solution, but that would require a broader shift across schools — something that is unlikely to happen quickly. — Stacker, Boston Herald, 11 May 2026 Readers respond to the news, including grade inflation, climate change and Democrats' 2024 autopsy. — Letters To The Editor, Washington Post, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for grade inflation

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grade inflation was in 1975

Rhymes for grade inflation

See All Rhymes for grade inflation

Browse Nearby Words

grade down
grade inflation
grade line
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Grade inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grade%20inflation. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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