a severance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a severance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a severance package or payment given to an employee upon termination of employment. Example: "After years of dedicated service, she received a severance that would help her transition to her next career opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Bill Donohue calls it "a severance package".

The New York Times

I was given a severance offer".

The New York Times

The envelope contained a severance agreement.

The New York Times

"It was a severance package," Mr. Weeks replied.

The New York Times

"A severance check arrived for you," he says.

The New Yorker

"After postmodernism" suggests a severance that has not occurred.

The New Yorker

Employees have until Jan . 24to accept a severance package.

The New York Times

He will be paid $2.2 million as a severance fee.

The New York Times - Sports

Sometimes the ensuing silence represents a severance, sometimes death.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He hired a lawyer to negotiate a severance package.

The New York Times

He was given a severance package of $36m.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing employment terms, clarify the specifics covered by "a severance" package, such as the amount, duration, and any benefits included.

Common error

Don't assume that "a severance" package covers all possible post-employment needs. Always review the details carefully to understand what is and isn't included, such as healthcare continuation or outplacement services.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a severance" typically functions as a noun phrase. It refers to an agreement or payment made to an employee upon termination of employment. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts, confirming its function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a severance" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to the terms and payments associated with the termination of employment. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and formal business contexts. When using this term, it's important to be clear about the specifics of the package and to avoid assumptions about its coverage. Alternative terms such as "termination package" or "separation agreement" can also be used depending on the specific situation. The frequency of use, as well as the presence in authoritative sources, makes "a severance" an easy, reliable and professional choice of word.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a termination package

Focuses more specifically on the collection of benefits and payments received upon termination of employment.

a separation agreement

Emphasizes the formal, legal agreement aspect of the severance.

a redundancy payment

Highlights the compensation given due to job redundancy.

a golden handshake

An idiomatic expression for a generous severance package, often for high-level executives.

a final payout

Focuses on the financial aspect of the severance as a final payment.

a departure compensation

Highlights that the payment is given as a result of leaving.

a leaving indemnity

Similar to compensation, but may imply protection against loss due to leaving the position.

a separation benefits

Focuses on the benefits received upon separation from employment.

a dismissal compensation

Highlights the payment given because of being dismissed.

a farewell bonus

A less formal and potentially more positive way to describe a severance payment.

FAQs

How is "a severance" package typically calculated?

Severance packages vary but are often based on factors like length of employment, position, and company policy. They may include weeks or months of salary, benefits continuation, and outplacement services.

What are common alternatives to "a severance" package?

You can use alternatives like "termination package", "separation agreement", or "redundancy payment" depending on the context.

Is "a severance" payment taxable?

Yes, severance payments are generally considered taxable income and are subject to federal and state income taxes, as well as payroll taxes.

What should I do if I'm offered "a severance" agreement?

Carefully review the agreement, consider consulting with an attorney to understand your rights and obligations, and negotiate the terms if necessary before signing.