English Reference

Word

certification

Phoneticscer·ti·fi·ca·tion, stress on the fourth syllable

US/ˌsɝtəfəˈkeɪʃən/

UK/sˌɜːtɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/

Definitions

01professional qualification

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. an official document or title that proves you have the skills to do a specific job.

n. a professional credential awarded by a regulatory body or institution that validates an individual's competency in a specific field.

“She is studying for her teaching certification so she can work in public schools.”

“Obtaining a project management certification significantly enhanced his prospects during the annual salary review process.”

Usage

Often used with 'in' to specify the field, such as 'certification in nursing'.

02the act of verifying

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Academic

n. the official process of checking and confirming that something is true or safe.

n. the formal procedure of verifying that a product, process, or document adheres to legal or technical standards.

“The new aircraft must undergo strict safety certification before it can carry passengers.”

“The laboratory's certification was suspended following an audit that revealed several breaches of standard safety protocols.”

Usage

Commonly functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the general process.

Real-World Examples

“This suggests that practical training and professional certification might boost confidence in hotel careers and improve professional identity in the sector.”
Phys.org 25 Aug 2026
“The organisation offers legal support and free English certification and classes, as well as mentorship for recent arrivals.”
The Guardian 21 Aug 2026

Word family

NOUN

certification(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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