Resign vs. Re-sign – Which is Correct?
Understanding the difference between “resign” and “re-sign” is crucial in both professional and personal contexts. While they sound similar, their meanings are entirely distinct. “Resign” refers to the act of voluntarily leaving a job or position, whereas “re-sign” involves signing a document again, often in the context of renewing a contract or agreement. This article explores these terms in detail, highlighting their correct usage, forms, and synonyms.
Resign vs Re-sign – Which is Correct?
The words “resign” and “re-sign” are both correct, but they are used in different contexts. “Resign” is used when someone voluntarily gives up a position or job, while “re-sign” is used when someone signs a document again, usually to extend or renew an agreement.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Resign | When someone voluntarily leaves a job or position. | She decided to resign from her position due to personal reasons. |
| Re-sign | When someone signs a document again, often to renew a contract. | He had to re-sign the contract to continue his lease. |
How to Use Resign
“Resign” is used when someone voluntarily leaves a job or position. It typically follows the structure: “to resign from [job or position].”
Example 1: After much consideration, I have decided to resign from my current position.
Example 2: Employees are required to provide a notice period when they resign.
Example 3: She chose to resign for a job that better suited her career goals.
What are the different forms of Resign?
“Resign” is a regular verb that follows typical conjugation patterns. The base form or infinitive is “to resign.” In the present tense, it would be “I resign,” “you resign,” “he/she/it resigns,” and so forth. The past tense would be “I resigned,” “you resigned,” and “he/she/it resigned.” The future tense would be “I will resign,” “you will resign,” “he/she/it will resign.” The present participle form is “resigning,” and the past participle form is “resigned.”
Etymology of the word Resign
The word “resign” originates from the Latin “resignare,” which means “to sign back.” This reflects the idea of giving up or relinquishing a title, office, or position.
How to Use Re-sign
“Re-sign” is used when someone signs a document again to extend or renew an agreement.
Example 1: They decided to re-sign their partnership agreement for another year.
Example 2: It’s important to re-sign the contract on time to avoid any legal issues.
Example 3: She was asked to re-sign the lease before moving in again.
What are the different forms of Re-sign?
“Re-sign” is also a regular verb. The base form is “to re-sign.” In the present tense, it would be “I re-sign,” “you re-sign,” “he/she/it re-signs,” etc. The past tense would be “I re-signed,” “you re-signed,” and “he/she/it re-signed.” The future tense would be “I will re-sign,” “you will re-sign,” and “he/she/it will re-sign.” The present participle form is “re-signing,” and the past participle form is “re-signed.”
Etymology of the word Re-sign
The term “re-sign” is formed by adding the prefix “re-” (meaning again) to the word “sign.” Therefore, it literally means to sign again.
Practice Exercises
- After a long discussion, she decided to __________ from her job.
- Please remember to __________ the contract before the deadline.
- He did not take the decision to __________ lightly.
- They had to __________ the documents to finalize the agreement.
- It is essential to __________ your position properly with HR.
Answer Key
- resign
- re-sign
- resign
- re-sign
- resign
Resign Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Quit | To leave a job or position voluntarily. |
| Step down | To resign from a position of authority. |
Re-sign Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Renew | To extend or continue something for another period. |
| Reinstate | To put back into a position or role. |
Conclusion
In summary, “resign” refers to the act of leaving a job or position, while “re-sign” involves signing a document again. Understanding the differences between these two terms is essential for clear communication in professional settings.
