Definition

Noun: A period during which one is officially excused from work, school, or other regular duties. It refers to authorized absence, often used for rest, personal matters, or vacation.

Usage

"Time off" is used to request or describe a period of authorized absence. It is typically modified by words indicating the reason (e.g., sick time off) or the method of taking it (e.g., take time off). It functions as a non-count noun; you do not typically say "a time off" but rather "some time off" or "time off."

Examples

• She took some time off to travel across Europe.
• He had to request time off for a medical appointment.
• After the busy season, the manager encouraged the team to use their accrued time off.
• Do you have any time off scheduled for next month?

Advanced Usage

• Compensatory time off: Time off granted in lieu of payment for overtime work.
  • Instead of overtime pay, she chose compensatory time off.
• Paid/Unpaid time off: Specifies whether the absence is with or without pay.
  • The company offers 20 days of paid time off per year.

Variants and Related Words

• Leave (n): A more formal synonym, often used in official contexts (e.g., ).
• Break (n): A general pause or short period of rest, not necessarily authorized or from work (e.g., ).
• Vacation (n)/Holiday (n): Specifically refers to time off for leisure or travel.

Synonyms

• Leave
• Absence
• Furlough (a temporary leave, often mandatory)

Related Phrases

• To take time off: The standard verb phrase for using one's authorized absence.
  • You should take time off if you're feeling unwell.
• To be on time off: To be in the state of using one's authorized absence.
  • I'll be on time off next week, so I won't be reachable by email.

Noun

1. a time period when you are not required to work
   • he requested time off to attend his grandmother's funeral