inauguration
- 01 C1 Advanced
a formal ceremony where a person is officially given a new job or title, especially a president.
the formal ceremony of inducting a person into a high office, such as a presidency or a university chancellorship.
Simple“Thousands of people gathered in the capital to watch the president's inauguration.”
In context“The presidential inauguration was marked by a series of traditional ceremonies and a formal address outlining the administration's goals for the next four years.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'of' followed by the title or person.
Teacher's tipWhile most commonly associated with the US President, it can apply to any high-ranking official or academic leader.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the official opening of a new building, system, or organisation.
the formal beginning or initiation of a new enterprise, public building, or significant event.
Simple“The city celebrated the inauguration of the new high-speed rail system.”
In context“The inauguration of the national library was attended by several prominent authors and local dignitaries.”
UsageCommonly used in the context of infrastructure or large-scale public projects.
Teacher's tipIn this sense, it implies a level of ceremony beyond a simple 'opening'.
SynonymsAntonyms
“Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to South Africa late on Thursday means the Super Falcons will miss the World Cup for the first time since the tournament’s inauguration in 1991.”
“The tragedy struck just three days after the inauguration of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who said the immediate priority is to rescue the people who remain trapped under the rubble.”
From Middle French inauguration.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.