English Reference
noun

grading

n.
US /ˈɡɹeɪdɪŋ/ UK /ɡɹˈeɪdɪŋ/ grad·ing UK spelling gradings

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    the process of checking and giving marks to students' exams or homework.

    the process of evaluating and assigning marks or grades to academic work.

    Simple

    The teacher spent the whole weekend grading the final exams.

    In context

    The university introduced a new rubric to ensure that grading remained consistent across different departments and teaching assistants.

    Usage

    Commonly used in American English where British English speakers would prefer 'marking'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    sorting things into groups based on their quality or size.

    the act of classifying or sorting items according to a specific scale of quality, size, or value.

    Simple

    The grading of the fruit happens right after it is picked from the trees.

    In context

    Strict grading standards for gemstones ensure that consumers understand the clarity and value of the diamond they are purchasing.

    Usage

    Often used in industrial or agricultural contexts.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical

    leveling or sloping the ground to prepare it for a building or a road.

    the process of reshaping the land surface to ensure proper drainage or to prepare a foundation for construction.

    Simple

    They finished the grading of the lot before they started building the house.

    In context

    Improper grading of the landscape can lead to significant water damage if rain flows toward the foundation instead of away from it.

    Usage

    Typically refers to civil engineering or landscaping work.

This is the third year that grading has returned to pre-pandemic standards across all three nations.

BBC News· 19 Aug 2026

No-zero grading policies prevent teachers from giving zeros on any assignment or test.

The Conversation· 20 Jul 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated