signed off work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "signed off work" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It typically refers to a formal process of a person being granted permission or approval to take time off from their job for a specific reason, such as illness, vacation, or maternity leave. Example: I will be signing off work next week to care for my sick child. In this sentence, the speaker will be requesting and receiving authorization from their employer to be absent from work in order to take care of their sick child.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

After a period signed off work for depression, she has now resigned from her job, unable to face her colleagues again.

The Guardian

I sold my business and was signed off work.

Independent

If the answer is yes, they're signed off work – perhaps for ever".

Independent

Loft, who was kept in custody over the weekend, is signed off work with depression.

The Guardian

I was diagnosed with clinical depression and stress, and signed off work.

The Guardian - Opinion

Owen is now 48 and has been signed off work for the rest of her life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

He signed off: "Working with you has been one of the great joys of my life.

BBC

This affects which creative formats are most effectiveStart signing off work on your mobile phone.

The Guardian

From 19 December – known as Black Eye Friday when employees sign off work for the holidays – until 4 January this year, they worked continuously.

The Guardian

Whereas a private sector pathologist can sign off work in the comfort of their own home, this option is non-existent in the public sector, despite the technology being available to do so (participants 1, 2, 3 and 7).

Human Resources for Health

It will also increase concern over the role of private companies in signing off works as compliant with building regulations.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "signed off work" when the employee has received formal approval, typically from a medical professional or employer, to take time off for health-related or other legitimate reasons.

Common error

Avoid using "signed off work" when referring to casual days off or unscheduled absences. This phrase suggests a formal process involving medical or employer authorization.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "signed off work" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a state of being formally excused from work duties. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is commonly used, especially in contexts where an employee has received official permission to take time off, often for medical reasons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "signed off work" signifies a formal, authorized absence from employment, typically due to medical or other legitimate reasons. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the absence is officially sanctioned and involves appropriate documentation or approval. Alternatives like "granted medical leave" or "approved for sick leave" may be suitable depending on the context. Remember that unlike a casual day off, being "signed off work" suggests a formal process with medical or employer involvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

signed off sick

British English equivalent with similar meaning, focused on illness.

approved for sick leave

Specifically relates to leave granted due to illness.

granted medical leave

Implies a formal approval for leave due to medical reasons.

certified as unfit for work

Highlights the medical assessment aspect of being unable to work.

authorized absence from work

A more formal way of saying someone has permission to be away from their job.

cleared for leave

Focuses on the permission aspect of taking time off.

given time off work

A more general term that doesn't specify the reason for the leave.

deemed unable to work

Emphasizes the inability to perform job duties.

placed on leave of absence

Suggests a more extended period away from work.

excused from duty

Implies a formal release from work responsibilities.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "signed off work"?

To be "signed off work" means that a medical professional or employer has formally approved an employee's leave of absence, usually due to illness, injury, or another legitimate reason requiring time away from their job.

What are some alternatives to "signed off work"?

Alternatives include "granted medical leave", "approved for sick leave", or "placed on leave of absence", depending on the specific context.

Is "signed off work" the same as "taking a day off"?

No, "signed off work" implies a formal process and often involves medical documentation or employer approval, while "taking a day off" typically refers to a casual or scheduled absence without necessarily requiring formal clearance.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "signed off work"?

Use "signed off work" when the absence is officially sanctioned, particularly for medical reasons. Avoid it for simple vacation days or personal time where a formal sign-off isn't required.