grade inflation

American  

noun

Education.

1. the awarding of higher grades than students deserve either to maintain a school's academic reputation or as a result of diminished teacher expectations.

2. a rise in the average grade given to students.

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grade inflation British  

noun

1. an apparently continual increase in numbers of students attaining high examination grades, or the practice of awarding grades in this way

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Etymology

Origin of grade inflation

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

A corollary concern is that grade inflation and other factors appear to be weakening the validity of this measure statewide.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 15, 2026

If grade inflation is a genuine problem, it is more troubling where grades obscure weak preparation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 17, 2025

Like other forms of inflation, grade inflation ultimately means exaggeration—and neither in the marketplace, nor in the classroom, is exaggeration a good thing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

New faculty reported surprise at how lenient grading is, and nearly all expressed “serious concern” about grade inflation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 12, 2025

Many blame grade inflation and an effort to avoid a high school dropout epidemic.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 26, 2025