an apparently continual increase in numbers of students attaining high examination grades, or the practice of awarding grades in this way
grade inflation in American English
noun
the awarding of higher grades than students deserve either to maintain a school's academic reputation or as a result of diminished teacher expectations
Word origin
[1980–85]This word is first recorded in the period 1980–85. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: biobehavioral, designer drug, hub-and-spoke, nuclear winter, postfeminist
Examples of 'grade inflation' in a sentence
grade inflation
The number of degrees awarded would be more closely monitored to guard against grade inflation.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
It is a familiar tale of grade inflation.
Times, Sunday Times (2018)
He concedes grade inflation in exams is a problem that needs addressing.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
Relentless grade inflation has been addressed at last.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
It is not the grade inflation that worries me.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
Second, pupils are allowed to resit papers, leading to over-examining and grade inflation.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Grade inflation has been ended and the teaching profession is attracting more talented people.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
University leaders are looking at measures to address grade inflation.
Times, Sunday Times (2018)
This spiralling grade inflation risks undermining public confidence in our higher-education system.