Retiring: meaning, definitions and examples

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' 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' 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' 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.

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.

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.

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.

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!