on leave

USAGE SUMMARY

"on leave" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
"On leave" means absent from work or duty due to vacation, illness, or other reasons. For example: My colleague is currently on leave due to his wedding.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She has been put on leave.

The New York Times

I am on leave Fall 2018.

Princeton University

If you "slept" with the TV on, leave it on.

WikiHow

On leave?

University of California, Berkeley

Katrin Bennhold is on leave.

The New York Times

So I'm on leave.

Harvard University

"Or on leave, actually.

The New Yorker

17 Traders fired, suspended or on leave.

Independent

Your father is here on leave.

The New Yorker

(on leave beginning Sept 2016).

Harvard University

Maureen Dowd is on leave.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When announcing that someone is "on leave", clearly state the reason for the absence if appropriate and permissible, to avoid speculation or misunderstanding. For instance, specify if it's for medical reasons, vacation, or another specific purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "on leave of absence". While related, "leave of absence" refers to the period itself, whereas "on leave" describes the state of being absent. Instead of saying someone is "on leave of absence", say they are "on leave" or "taking a leave of absence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on leave" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of temporary absence. Ludwig examples show its use in describing someone's current status, such as "He is "on leave" from the university."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on leave" is a grammatically correct and very common prepositional phrase used to indicate a temporary absence from duty, work, or a specific role. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and understood. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academia, the phrase serves to inform or announce an individual's temporary absence. To avoid confusion, it's best not to conflate it with "leave of absence", which refers to the period of absence itself, not the state of being absent. When using "on leave", ensure that context is clear and any pertinent details are mentioned for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking time off

A more general term for any absence from work.

away from duty

Emphasizes the absence from required responsibilities.

on sick leave

Indicates absence due to illness.

out of office

Commonly used in professional settings to indicate temporary unavailability.

granted leave

Focuses on the permission aspect of being absent.

taking a sabbatical

Specifically refers to a longer period of absence, often for academic pursuits.

on vacation

Specifies that the absence is for recreational purposes.

on furlough

Suggests a temporary layoff, often due to economic reasons.

taking a break

A broader term, suggesting a temporary pause from any activity, not necessarily work-related.

on suspension

Implies a disciplinary action leading to temporary removal from duty.

FAQs

How to use "on leave" in a sentence?

You can use "on leave" to indicate a temporary absence from work or duty. For example, "The professor is "on leave" for the fall semester" or "The officer was placed "on leave" pending an investigation".

What's the difference between "on leave" and "off work"?

"On leave" generally implies a formal, approved absence from work, often for a specific reason like vacation, illness, or sabbatical. "Off work" is a more general term that can include being "on leave", but also days off, holidays, or being unemployed.

Which is correct, "on leave" or "in leave"?

"On leave" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. "In leave" is not standard English and should be avoided.

What can I say instead of "on leave"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "taking time off", "away from duty", "on vacation", or "on sick leave".