Definition

Noun: Leave from work granted to an employee due to a personal or family emergency, such as a serious illness or the death of a close relative. It is a form of authorized absence given out of compassion for the employee's difficult circumstances.

Usage

"Compassionate leave" is a formal term used primarily in workplace, institutional, or military contexts. It is requested and granted for specific, urgent situations involving immediate family members or sometimes close relationships. The duration is typically short-term.

Examples

• The company granted him compassionate leave following the sudden death of his father.
• She had to apply for compassionate leave to care for her seriously ill child.
• The soldier was flown home on compassionative leave after the family emergency.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often part of formal HR policies. It is usually unpaid or paid at the employer's discretion, distinct from standard vacation or sick leave.
• It can sometimes be extended beyond immediate family, depending on company policy, for example, for the death of a very close friend.

Variants and Related Words

• Bereavement leave: A more specific type of compassionate leave granted specifically following a death. Often used interchangeably, though "bereavement leave" is narrower in scope.
• Emergency leave: A broader term that can include compassionate leave but also covers other urgent personal situations.
• Leave of absence: A general term for any approved time away from work.

Synonyms

• Bereavement leave
• Emergency leave
• Family leave (in the context of an emergency)

Related Phrases

• To be on / to take compassionate leave: The state of using this type of leave.
  • He is currently on compassionate leave.
  • She had to take compassionate leave last week.
• To grant / approve compassionate leave: The action of the employer or institution.
  • Management approved her request for compassionate leave.

Noun

1. (military) leave granted in an emergency such as family sickness or death