Resignation: meaning, definitions and examples

😔
Add to dictionary

resignation

 

[ ˌrɛzɪɡˈneɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

formal

The act of resigning or giving up a position. It is a formal statement of giving up a job or position.

Synonyms

departure, quitting, retirement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
resignation

Used when someone formally gives up their job or position, often through a written notice.

  • She handed in her resignation letter last week
  • His resignation from the board was unexpected
departure

Generally refers to someone leaving a place or position, often used in a broader sense beyond just jobs.

  • His sudden departure from the company raised questions
  • The departure of the team leader left a big gap
quitting

Informal, often used when someone stops working suddenly or without much notice. Can have a negative connotation.

  • He ended up quitting his job out of frustration
  • Quitting isn’t always the best option when things get tough
retirement

Specifically used when someone stops working due to age, typically after a long career.

  • She announced her retirement after 30 years of service
  • His retirement party is scheduled for next month

Examples of usage

  • She submitted her resignation yesterday.
  • His resignation was unexpected by everyone in the company.
Context #2 | Noun

emotional

A feeling of acceptance and submission to something undesirable. It can also refer to the act of accepting defeat or a difficult situation.

Synonyms

acceptance, acquiescence, compliance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
resignation

Used when someone formally leaves a job or position, or accepts a situation they can't change without enthusiasm.

  • The CEO submitted his resignation after the scandal.
  • She signed the contract with a sense of resignation, aware that it was not her first choice.
acceptance

Used to show a positive acknowledgement of a situation, offer, or idea.

  • Her acceptance into the university was a moment of great joy for her family.
  • He showed acceptance of the new company policy after attending the meeting.
acquiescence

Used to describe reluctant or passive agreement without protest, often without enthusiasm.

  • His acquiescence to the new rules surprised his colleagues.
  • She nodded in quiet acquiescence, not wanting to argue further.
compliance

Used in a context where someone adheres to rules, standards, or laws, often due to obligation or regulation.

  • The company was in full compliance with environmental regulations.
  • The student showed compliance with the school dress code.

Examples of usage

  • After the loss, a sense of resignation settled over the team.
  • She faced the news with resignation, knowing there was nothing she could do.

Translations

Translations of the word "resignation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 renúncia

🇮🇳 इस्तीफा

🇩🇪 Rücktritt

🇮🇩 pengunduran diri

🇺🇦 відставка

🇵🇱 rezygnacja

🇯🇵 辞任 (じにん)

🇫🇷 démission

🇪🇸 dimisión

🇹🇷 istifa

🇰🇷 사임 (saim)

🇸🇦 استقالة

🇨🇿 rezignace

🇸🇰 rezignácia

🇨🇳 辞职 (cízhí)

🇸🇮 odstop

🇮🇸 afsögn

🇰🇿 отставка

🇬🇪 გადადგომა

🇦🇿 istefa

🇲🇽 dimisión

Etymology

The word 'resignation' originates from the Latin word 'resignatio', which means 'the act of resigning'. The concept of resignation has been present in various cultures and societies throughout history, reflecting the idea of letting go or surrendering. In the context of employment, resignation became a formal process to indicate the voluntary termination of a job or position.

See also: resign, resigned, resigning.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,073 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.