resignation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
resignation Word Meanings
- the act of resigning from a position
- an accepting attitude towards something undesirable
- the state of having relinquished something
resignation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
resignation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛzɪgˈneɪʃən/
US
/ˌrɛzɪgˈneɪʃən/
resignation Word Etymology
re- = back + signare = to mark. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person stepping back with a signed resignation letter in hand, indicating their decision to leave, accepting the change.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push the chair back, stand up, and set my shoulders as I reach for the resignation letter. I shift the papers on the desk, adjust my nerves, and turn toward the door with a steady breath. Holding the envelope, I feel a quiet weight settle in the room as the moment changes from plan to decision. I let the outcome unfold and move forward, learning to live with what I relinquish.
Real Context
Resignation is a noun with several closely related senses. It can refer to the formal act of quitting a job or position, often accompanied by a letter of resignation. It can also describe an accepting or passive attitude toward an unpleasant situation, implying surrender rather than bold opposition. A person might speak of a sense of resignation after repeatedly facing the same problem without an easy solution, or of relinquishing control, privileges, or claims. In legal or organizational contexts, the term can carry formal weight or be used in everyday speech to describe a quiet acknowledgment that change is necessary, even if it feels disappointing.
Usage Reminders
- - Use resignation for formal job quitting; not for retirement.
- - Distinguish the act of resigning from an attitude of acceptance.
- - Pair resignation with the preposition from (resign from a position).
- - Remember that resignation can be neutral or negative in tone depending on context.
- - Practice with a resignation letter vs. a casual claim of giving up.
- - Compare with synonyms like quit, retire, or give up to see nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing resignation with retirement or aging out of a career
- Thinking resignation only means giving up on life goals, not just a job
- Assuming resignation always carries a negative emotional tone
- Mistaking resignation for surrender in all contexts
- Using resignation to refer to any form of quitting, including impulsive decisions
Thinking Differences
English clearly separates the formal act of quitting a job from the idea of accepting something undesirable; learners often mix up the formal sense with the emotional nuance of resignation.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn the three senses: formal quitting, acceptance, and relinquishment.
- 2) Memorize key collocations: resign from, resignation letter.
- 3) Practice tone: neutral vs emotional depending on context.
- 4) Use real-life examples to compare senses.
- 5) Distinguish synonyms: quit, retire, give up by nuance.
- 6) Review common mistakes with prepositions and objects.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'resignation'?
A.Joy
B.Anger
C.Confusion
D.Acceptance
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'resignation' correctly?
A.She screamed with resignation when she won the prize.
B.I felt resignation with the warm sunshine on my face.
C.Resignation is never the solution to a problem.
D.His resignation to the situation was evident in his calm demeanor.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'resignation'?
A.Surrender
B.Hope
C.Resistance
D.Defiance
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'resignation'?
A.Enthusiasm
B.Defiance
C.Acceptance
D.Joy
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might someone experience 'resignation'?
A.Winning the lottery
B.Finding out about a promotion
C.Dealing with a difficult boss
D.Going on vacation
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