a note of resignation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a note of resignation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to convey a sense of acceptance or acknowledgment of a situation, often in a context where someone is stepping down or giving up on something. Example: "In her speech, she spoke with a note of resignation about the challenges the team faced this season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Was there a note of resignation there?

The Guardian - Sport

She sounds a note of resignation.

The New York Times - Magazine

So what does that tell you?" said Mr. Cheeseborough, a note of resignation in his voice.

The New York Times

Just occasionally a note of resignation or even regret slips into Machiavelli's advice on these matters.

The Guardian - Opinion

Still, along with the desperation that is smothering the Eagles, there was also, from Vick, a note of resignation.

The New York Times - Sports

"You can see what she looks like," the trainer, Mindy Willis, said with a note of resignation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Despite a few "Christmas terror blitz on capital" headlines, even the media, usually grateful for a bit of real news during the quiet holiday period, struck a note of weary resignation rather than shock at what was allegedly being planned.Because of court-imposed restrictions on reporting, only a limited amount of information is in the public domain.

The Economist

It also inspired one of Belle and Sebastian's funniest videos – a French new wave cinema-inspired romp in which Murdoch and Jackson more or less act out the song's love triangle lyric, which concludes with none more fantastically drippy a note of jilted resignation than: "You and her in the local newspaper / you will be married and you will be gone".

The Guardian - Music

He will be elected for sure if there is no deal, and your 97percentt will become 40 to 45percentt; your capital in East Jerusalem will be gone.... "He looked at me sadly and with a note of complete resignation, replied, 'I am afraid it may take another 50 years to settle this now.' ".

The New York Times - Books

"I'm a celebrity here," he said, with a slight note of resignation.

The New Yorker

A distinct note of resignation has crept into conversations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a note of resignation", ensure the context clearly indicates a sense of acceptance or giving up, often with a hint of disappointment or sadness.

Common error

Avoid using "a note of resignation" when the situation calls for proactive problem-solving or resistance, as it implies a lack of effort or hope.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a note of resignation" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or an adverbial modifier describing the manner or quality of an action or statement. Ludwig examples show its use in describing someone's voice or approach, conveying a sense of acceptance of something undesirable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a note of resignation" is a commonly used phrase to describe a sense of acceptance, often with a hint of sadness or disappointment, regarding an undesirable situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase as grammatically correct and usable in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives like "a hint of surrender" or "a resigned attitude" exist, "a note of resignation" specifically captures the emotional undertone of accepting something inevitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a resigned attitude

Focuses on the overall demeanor rather than a specific expression.

a hint of surrender

Focuses on the act of giving up rather than an emotional undertone.

an air of acceptance

Highlights the passive acknowledgment of a situation.

a touch of defeatism

Emphasizes a pessimistic outlook, rather than just acceptance.

a sense of inevitability

Stresses the unavoidable nature of the situation being accepted.

a spirit of acquiescence

Highlights the act of agreeing or complying without protest.

a shadow of disappointment

Underlines a sense of sadness after the failure

a tone of submission

Emphasizes yielding to a superior force or authority.

a feeling of helplessness

Highlights the lack of control over the situation.

a display of compliance

Focuses on the outward behavior of following rules or requests.

FAQs

How can I use "a note of resignation" in a sentence?

You can use "a note of resignation" to describe someone's tone, expression, or actions when they are accepting something disappointing or inevitable. For example, "There was "a note of resignation" in her voice when she admitted defeat".

What are some alternatives to saying "a note of resignation"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a hint of surrender", "a resigned attitude", or "an air of acceptance".

Is it correct to use "a note of resignation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a note of resignation" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reports, essays, and analyses where you need to describe someone's emotional state or attitude. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

What's the difference between "a note of resignation" and "a note of despair"?

"A note of resignation" implies acceptance, even if unwillingly, while "a note of despair" suggests hopelessness and a loss of faith. The former is more about conceding, while the latter is about profound sadness and discouragement.