retire at once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retire at once" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being instructed or advised to stop working or to leave a position immediately. Example: "After the incident, the board decided it was best for him to retire at once to maintain the company's reputation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"They are all old people, and they should retire at once.

The New York Times

He finally departs at about 11 PM and the adults are so tired that they have to retire at once.

The New Yorker

It reported, "The authorities, unprepared at first to deal with the uprising, ordered the police and soldiers to retire at once to their quarters".

The New York Times

Twelve senior officers, including three major-generals, were then asked to retire at once, accused of having engaged in political work.Mr Fonseka, who says he will continue in politics, has appealed for international help to uphold democracy in Sri Lanka.

The Economist

"You lose the expertise and institutional knowledge if you have too many retire at once," said Lambert.

Huffington Post

After this victory, Ismay "would have liked to retire at once", but at Attlee's request he remained in the military for another year.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Some of his most celebrated dancers retired at once or soon after.

The New York Times - Arts

"There was a perfect storm against him," said Senator Charles E. Schumer of New York, who was recently tapped to succeed Mr. Corzine as head of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee through the midterm elections of 2006, "an unprecedented five southern Democrats retiring at once, in a year when the South was moving further and further to the right".

The New York Times

Hannon once said he would retire at the age of 60.

The Guardian - Sport

He once joked that he would retire at 100.

Huffington Post

I certainly will retire at this team.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "retire at once" when conveying a sense of urgency or finality regarding someone's departure or cessation of duties. Consider the context and ensure it aligns with the formal tone of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "retire at once" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or even comical in contexts where a simpler phrase like "leave immediately" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retire at once" functions as an imperative expression, often used to convey a directive or decision regarding the immediate cessation of someone's duties or position. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from military commands to corporate decisions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "retire at once" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the immediate cessation of someone's duties or position. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While not overly common, it finds its place in formal contexts such as news reports, encyclopedias, and official announcements. Consider alternatives like "leave immediately" or "step down immediately" based on the specific context and desired level of formality. Use it judiciously to convey urgency and finality in appropriate settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave immediately

Focuses on the act of leaving without delay, applicable in broader contexts.

step down immediately

Suggests a quick resignation from a position of authority.

resign immediately

Implies a formal and instant resignation.

quit immediately

Suggests an abrupt and often informal cessation of an activity or job.

depart at once

Emphasizes immediate departure from a location.

vacate immediately

Indicates an immediate leaving of a place or position.

withdraw immediately

Implies an immediate removal or retreat from a situation or position.

cease forthwith

A formal and somewhat archaic term for stopping immediately.

halt immediately

Indicates stopping an action or process without delay.

desist immediately

Formal command to stop something instantly.

FAQs

What does "retire at once" mean?

The phrase "retire at once" means to stop working or to leave a position immediately. It indicates an abrupt and often decisive end to someone's professional activities.

When is it appropriate to use "retire at once"?

It is most appropriate in formal or serious contexts where an immediate departure or cessation of duties is required or being discussed. For example, it can be used when a board decides someone should "step down immediately" due to misconduct.

What are some alternatives to "retire at once"?

Alternatives include "leave immediately", "step down immediately", or "resign immediately", depending on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "retire at once" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "retire at once" is grammatically correct. The structure follows standard English grammar rules, and Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable and understandable in written English.