sabbatical leave
Noun: A prolonged period of officially granted leave from work, typically one year in duration, traditionally offered every seventh year to professionals such as academics, clergy, or researchers. Its primary purpose is for rest, travel, study, or writing, enabling the individual to engage in personal or professional development outside their regular duties.
"Sabbatical leave" is used as a countable noun. It refers to the formal, approved period of absence itself. * The professor is on sabbatical leave to complete her book. * After six years of teaching, he was granted a sabbatical leave. * She used her sabbatical leave to conduct field research abroad.
- The university's policy allows for a full year of sabbatical leave at full pay after six consecutive years of service.
- His sabbatical leave was spent volunteering with an archaeological dig in Greece.
- Many academics find that a sabbatical leave is essential for pursuing long-term research projects.
- To be on sabbatical (leave): This is the most common phrase to describe the state of taking such leave.
- Dr. Evans is on sabbatical this semester and will not be teaching any classes.
- To take a sabbatical (leave): This phrase describes the action of beginning the leave period.
- She plans to take a sabbatical next academic year.
- Sabbatical (noun/adjective): Often used interchangeably with "sabbatical leave." As an adjective, it describes things related to the leave (e.g., , ).
- Leave of absence: A more general term for any authorized period away from work, which can include sabbatical leave, medical leave, or personal leave.
- Leave of absence (general synonym)
- Research leave (specific type, often used in academic contexts)
- Professional development leave
The core meaning centers on a formal, extended break for renewal and development. While historically tied to a seven-year cycle (from the concept of the Sabbath), in modern usage, the timing and duration can vary by institution. The term strongly implies the leave is for a constructive purpose, not merely a vacation.
- a leave usually taken every seventh year