grade inflation

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.

grade inflation

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of grade inflation¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

After rejecting many possible explanations for this increase — like better-prepared students or improved student services — the authors argue that grade inflation appears to play an important role.

From Washington Post

Here is an argument that grade inflation maybe useful in some cases, helping students to persist in school and succeed in areas they otherwise might not have pursued.

From Washington Post

These studies argue that grade inflation may encourage students to stick with their education despite its challenges.

From Washington Post

After all, grade inflation may make it more difficult for students to assess their own level of academic preparation and aptitude, which could lead students to persist along educational tracks that may not best match their talents.

From Washington Post