Quitting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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quitting

[ˈkwɪtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

work

To leave a job or position permanently.

Synonyms

depart, leave, resign.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
quitting

Usually used when someone stops doing something, often abruptly or with a sense of giving up. Can be informal and sometimes has a negative connotation.

  • She is quitting her job after just six months
  • | He thought about quitting the project because it became too stressful
resign

Used in a professional context to indicate someone formally stepping down from a job or position. It has a more official tone compared to 'quitting.'

  • He decided to resign from his position as CEO
  • | After ten years with the company, she resigned
leave

Common word for exiting a place or stopping an activity. It is neutral and can be used in many situations.

  • I have to leave for work soon
  • | They decided to leave the party early
depart

Formal term typically used in contexts involving travel or leaving a place. Often found in announcements or formal communications.

  • The train will depart from Platform 3
  • | She departed from the office at noon

Examples of usage

  • She is quitting her job to start her own business.
  • He announced that he would be quitting his role as CEO next month.
Context #2 | Noun

smoking

The act of stopping or ceasing to smoke, especially tobacco.

Synonyms

abandoning, cessation, stopping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
quitting

Used when someone decides to stop doing something, particularly in the context of giving up a job or a habit.

  • She is quitting her job next month.
  • He decided to quit smoking to improve his health.
cessation

Used in formal or official contexts to indicate the stopping of an activity or process.

  • There was a cessation of hostilities between the two countries.
  • The company announced the cessation of its overseas operations.
stopping

Used in everyday language to indicate the act of halting an activity or process without the formal or negative implications.

  • She is stopping by the store on her way home.
  • He started stopping his car at the red light.
abandoning

Used when someone leaves something entirely, often with a sense of leaving it behind permanently or neglectfully. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The family is abandoning their old house.
  • He felt guilty about abandoning his pet.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to finally kick the habit after years of smoking by quitting.
  • Quitting smoking has many health benefits.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that quitting can be a healthy choice when a task becomes harmful to one's well-being.
  • The fear of quitting can lead to anxiety, but it can also foster resilience when seen as an opportunity for new beginnings.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures view quitting negatively, associating it with failure, but others celebrate the courage it takes to walk away.
  • The phrase 'quitters never win' reflects a common belief that persistence is critical, but there are many successful individuals who chose to quit at the right time.

Literature

  • Quitting a task or relationship is a common theme in literature, exemplifying character growth or personal liberation.
  • Authors often explore the inner conflicts associated with quitting, showcasing the tension between societal expectations and personal needs.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Take This Job and Shove It' epitomize the feeling of wanting to quit a job, resonating with audiences dissatisfied with their work.
  • Numerous films portray characters who ultimately decide to quit their frustrating jobs to pursue their passion, highlighting the quest for fulfillment.

Origin of 'quitting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'quitier,' meaning to free or release, reflecting the act of letting go.
  • In English, it began to take on the meaning of 'to leave' or 'give up' in the 15th century.

The word 'quitting' originated from the Middle English word 'quiten', which means 'to repay' or 'to fulfill'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include 'to leave' or 'to cease'. The term has been used in various contexts, such as work and smoking, to denote the act of stopping or ceasing something.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,764, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.