Retiring: meaning, definitions and examples

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retiring

[rɪˈtaɪərɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

work

Feeling tired or bored with work after many years and wanting to stop doing it.

Synonyms

pensioned off, resigning, stepping down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
retiring	Use 'retiring' when someone is leaving their job or profession permanently, often because they have reached a certain age. This is usually a positive and voluntary decision. After 40 years of dedicated service, she is retiring next month. John is retiring at the end of this year to spend more time with his family.
pensioned off	'Pensioned off' is used when someone is made to leave their job and starts receiving a pension. This can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying that the person was forced to leave, often due to age or redundancy. The company pensioned off several employees during the restructuring. He was pensioned off against his will after the new management took over.
stepping down	'Stepping down' is often used when someone leaves a position of authority or responsibility, usually to allow someone else to take over. It can be voluntary or due to certain pressures but is often seen as a graceful and dignified exit. The CEO announced that he is stepping down at the end of the fiscal year. She is stepping down from her role as leader of the project after successfully completing the initial phase.
resigning	'Resigning' is applicable when someone is voluntarily leaving their position or job, often to pursue other opportunities or because they are unhappy with their current situation. After three stressful years, she is resigning from her position as marketing director. He is resigning to take a higher position at another company.

Examples of usage

I'm planning on retiring next year after working for 40 years.
She decided to take early retirement as she was becoming increasingly retiring.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

sports

To withdraw from a competition or sporting event, especially due to age or injury.

Synonyms

quit, step down, withdraw.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
retiring	This word is often used when someone leaves their job or career permanently, typically because they have reached the end of their working life or after a long period of service. It has a positive or neutral connotation. After 40 years of dedicated service, she is retiring from her position at the company. He decided to start his own business after retiring from his teaching career.
withdraw	This term is often used when someone removes themselves or gets removed from a situation, activity, or responsibility. It can be used in various contexts, from personal choices to financial situations. The athlete had to withdraw from the competition due to an injury. She decided to withdraw her application for the job.
step down	This phrase is used when someone leaves an important or powerful position, often to allow someone else to take over. It usually has a neutral tone. After the scandal, the CEO decided to step down. He will step down from his role as chairman at the end of the year.
quit	This word is used when someone stops doing something, particularly a job or a task, usually abruptly or without completing it. It may carry a negative connotation depending on the context. He quit his job because he felt unappreciated. I can't believe she quit the project halfway through!

Examples of usage

The athlete had to retire from the race due to a muscle injury.
After a long and successful career, the tennis player decided to retire from professional sports.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The concept of retirement emerged in the late 19th century, when some governments started offering pensions to older workers.
In the 1930s, Social Security in the U.S. established a formal system for supporting retirees financially.
The average retirement age has shifted over time, once starting at age 65, but now many people choose to retire earlier or later.

Cultural Perspectives

In some countries, retiring is seen as a time of rest and enjoyment, while in others, it’s a time for continued productivity.
Japanese culture highly values work, and many individuals face societal pressure to work until much later in life.
In contrast, cultures in countries like Spain often celebrate retirement with significant social events and festivities.

Psychology

Many individuals feel anxious about retiring due to loss of identity tied to their job, leading into a period of adjustment.
Studies show that retired people often report higher feelings of happiness, but they must find meaningful activities to stay engaged.
The transition to retirement can be positively influenced by having a solid support system, like family and friends.

Economics

The financial readiness for retirement often depends on pre-savings, investments, and government support options available.
Economic trends, such as the rise in longevity, have led to discussions about increasing the retirement age in many countries.
The impact of the 2008 financial crisis had lasting effects on retirement savings, prompting many to rethink their retirement plans.

Literature and Media

Retirement is a common theme in literature, often symbolizing freedom or introspection, as seen in works by authors like Philip Roth.
Films like 'About Schmidt' depict the challenges and new opportunities that come with retiring, highlighting personal growth.
Many self-help books focus on preparing for retirement, emphasizing the importance of planning for mental and emotional well-being.

Translations

Translations of the word "retiring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aposentadoria

🇮🇳 सेवानिवृत्ति

🇩🇪 Ruhestand

🇮🇩 pensiun

🇺🇦 вихід на пенсію

🇵🇱 emerytura

🇯🇵 引退

🇫🇷 retraite

🇪🇸 jubilación

🇹🇷 emeklilik

🇰🇷 은퇴

🇸🇦 تقاعد

🇨🇿 důchod

🇸🇰 dôchodok

🇨🇳 退休

🇸🇮 upokojitev

🇮🇸 eftirlaun

🇰🇿 зейнеткерлік

🇬🇪 პენსია

🇦🇿 təqaüd

🇲🇽 jubilación

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,564 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8561 forged
8562 mined
8563 fused
8564 retiring
8565 penetrated
8566 exempted
8567 interfering
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