degrees

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "degrees" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the temperature of an environment, the measure of an angle or an academic achievement. For example: "Today's temperature is 20 degrees Celsius." or "The angle of the slope measures 70 degrees." or "She earned her Master's degree in business administration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is the intellectual justification for why such a high premium is placed on degrees from first-tier business schools, and why the compensation packages for top executives have become so lavish.

The Economist

More practical reasons suggest themselves for the success of Chilean wine: the central valleys boast rich alluvial soil, and the climate found between 28 and 38 degrees of latitude is perfect for the vines.

The Guardian - Travel

(The free degrees are on top of the discount already offered to all maths and science students, which Labor introduced in 2008 but then reversed in the search for budget savings).

The Guardian

QAA has consulted academics on, and included in the UK Quality Code, the basic features that should be incorporated into courses in terms of design, recruitment, learning and teaching, student participation and engagement, assessment and external examining, course updating, appeals and complaints, collaboration and research degrees.

The Guardian

It also forced graduates to pay back student loans sooner but extended fee help to non-university courses such as diplomas and associate degrees.

The Guardian

Only a few months later, the Morningside Foundation, led by Hong Kong venture capitalists Ronnie and Gerald Chan, topped that with a $350m donation to the school of public health, where Gerald earned his master's and doctorate degrees.

The Guardian - Business

Rebekah Diski Has master's degrees from Columbia University and the LSE and has conducted research in the UK, US, France and Madagascar.

The Guardian

On the agenda from 11 to 17 July are two proposals to create what's called Marine Protected Areas (MPA) within which are allowed varying degrees of activity, from fishing and tourism under restrictions to areas known as "no take" zones.

The Guardian

In reducing tuition fees to an artificial level, Labour would jeopardise the value, worth and quality of British degrees.

The Guardian

π/6 is 30 degrees since p=180 degrees so 7/6 π = 210 degrees, and 210 is the overall variable number being decremented by 360 degrees versus a cosine and sine function.

WikiHow

This idea that nurses don't need degrees is nonsense.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing temperature, always specify the scale (Celsius, Fahrenheit, or Kelvin) for clarity. For example, "The water was heated to 100 degrees Celsius."

Common error

Ensure you use the plural form, "degrees", when referring to multiple units or a range. Use the singular form, "degree", when referring to a single unit or when it is part of a specific title (e.g., Bachelor of Arts degree).

Linguistic Context

The word "degrees" functions primarily as a plural noun. Ludwig AI shows it is used to denote units of measurement for temperature or angles, as well as academic qualifications. In the context of temperature, it quantifies heat or cold, while in academics, it represents earned credentials.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "degrees" functions primarily as a plural noun, widely used to denote units of temperature, angles, or academic qualifications. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media. When writing about temperature, remember to specify the scale for clarity. Be mindful of the singular form, "degree", for single units or specific titles. For alternatives, consider "academic qualifications" or "temperature readings" depending on the context. Keep in mind that clarity and precision are key when using "degrees" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

academic qualifications

Focuses specifically on educational achievements, emphasizing the formal qualifications obtained.

academic standings

Refers to student's scholastic performance.

temperature readings

Specifically refers to measured temperature values, often in a scientific or technical context.

certifications

Specifically refers to formal documents validating a skill or competence.

levels of intensity

Emphasizes the magnitude or strength of something, applicable in various contexts beyond just temperature.

measures

Focuses on the numerical or quantitative aspect, especially in scientific contexts.

grades of severity

Highlights the extent or seriousness of a situation or condition, often used in medical or risk assessment.

levels

Refers to the amount or degree of something.

extent

Highlights magnitude, scope or range of something.

stage

Emphasizes the level or point in a process or development.

FAQs

How do I properly indicate temperature using "degrees"?

Always specify the temperature scale (Celsius, Fahrenheit, or Kelvin) after the number of "degrees". For example, "The room temperature is 25 degrees Celsius."

Is it correct to say "a degrees" or "an degrees"?

No, it is incorrect. "Degrees" is a plural noun. You would say "a degree" when referring to a single academic qualification or a single unit of temperature change. You can use the indefinite article with a modifier, for example: "an advanced degree".

What are some alternative phrases for "academic degrees"?

You can use alternatives like "academic qualifications", "certifications", or "academic standings" depending on the context.

What is the difference between saying "to a certain degree" and "to certain degrees"?

Saying "to a certain degree" implies a limited extent or scope. Using "to certain degrees" is grammatically incorrect in this idiomatic expression. Consider alternatives such as "extent" or "level" when using the singular form.