# inauguration

/ɪˌnɔɡjɝˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɪnˌɔːɡjʊɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inauguration
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. induction into office

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a formal ceremony where a person is officially given a new job or title, especially a president.

For teachers: the formal ceremony of inducting a person into a high office, such as a presidency or a university chancellorship.

- Thousands of people gathered in the capital to watch the president's inauguration.
- 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.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'of' followed by the title or person.

Teaching tip: While most commonly associated with the US President, it can apply to any high-ranking official or academic leader.

### 2. official opening

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the official opening of a new building, system, or organisation.

For teachers: the formal beginning or initiation of a new enterprise, public building, or significant event.

- The city celebrated the inauguration of the new high-speed rail system.
- The inauguration of the national library was attended by several prominent authors and local dignitaries.

Usage: Commonly used in the context of infrastructure or large-scale public projects.

Teaching tip: In this sense, it implies a level of ceremony beyond a simple 'opening'.

## Examples

- The president's inauguration takes place in January.
- Thousands of people gathered in the capital to witness the inauguration of the new government.
- The inauguration of the high-speed rail network represented a significant milestone in the country's infrastructure development, promising to connect distant regions more efficiently.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.