to resign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to resign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is formally giving up a position or job, typically in a professional context. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided to resign from my position as manager effective immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I had to resign.

The New York Times

He planned to resign.

The New York Times

I have to resign.

The New York Times

He refused to resign.

The Economist

He was forced to resign.

The New Yorker

Richard Nixon had to resign.

The New York Times

Yet he refused to resign.

The Economist

He just agreed to resign".

The New York Times

"Ed has to resign tomorrow.

Independent

Elders was forced to resign.

The New Yorker

Comey threatened to resign.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to resign", ensure the context clearly indicates the position or role being left. Be specific about whether the resignation is voluntary or forced.

Common error

Avoid using "resign" interchangeably with verbs like "re-sign" (to sign again) or "assign" (to allocate). "To resign" specifically means to give up a position or role.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to resign" is as an infinitive verb phrase, often used to express the act of voluntarily leaving a position or role. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase appears in various contexts, particularly in news and formal communications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to resign" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive verb phrase used to describe the act of voluntarily leaving a position or role. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki articles. While considered neutral to professional in register, the sources from Ludwig suggest its use in various contexts to convey a formal departure. When using "to resign", be mindful of its context and ensure it accurately reflects the act of formally giving up a position.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to step down

Suggests a more graceful or planned departure from a position.

to quit

A more informal way to say to leave a job or position.

to relinquish office

Implies a formal giving up of an official position or role.

to vacate a post

Focuses on the act of leaving a position empty.

to leave office

A general way to express leaving a political or administrative role.

to tender one's resignation

Highlights the formal act of submitting a resignation notice.

to give up one's position

Emphasizes the act of surrendering a held role.

to abdicate

Specifically refers to a monarch or high-ranking official giving up their throne or position.

to cede control

Emphasizes the surrender of power or authority.

to hand in one's notice

Focuses on the act of formally notifying an employer of one's intent to leave.

FAQs

What does it mean "to resign" from a job?

To "to resign" from a job means to voluntarily leave your position, typically by providing notice to your employer. It's a formal way of quitting.

What's the difference between "to resign" and "to quit"?

While both terms refer to leaving a job, "to resign" is generally considered more formal than "to quit". "To resign" often implies a more professional or official departure.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "to resign"?

It's appropriate to use "to resign" when formally announcing your departure from a job, position, or role. This is common in professional settings, political offices, and organizational leadership.

What are some alternatives to saying "to resign"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to step down", "to leave office", or "to relinquish office". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.