退学

• Reading: たいがく
• Romaji: taigaku
• Kanji breakdown: 退 (tai) — retreat, withdraw; 学 (gaku) — learning, school
• Pronunciation: /ta.i.ɡa.kɯ/

Meaning

Dropping out of school; withdrawal from an educational institution before completion.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (退学する). Can be voluntary or forced: 自主退学 (voluntary withdrawal), 退学届 (withdrawal notice), 退学処分 (expulsion). Distinct from 卒業 (graduation) and 休学 (temporary leave of absence). A serious decision in Japanese society where educational credentials are highly valued.

Examples

1. 経済的な理由で大学を退学する学生が増えている。 More and more students are dropping out of college for financial reasons.
2. 退学届を出す前にもう一度よく考えてほしい。 I want you to think it over one more time before submitting the withdrawal form.
3. 彼は高校を退学してすぐに働き始めた。 He dropped out of high school and started working right away.

Usage Guide

Context: education, administration, life decisions

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 退 (tai, to retreat/withdraw) and 学 (gaku, learning/school). Together, 'withdrawing from learning' — leaving an educational institution.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Young adults

Social background: Universal