Re-sign or Resign? Learn When and How to Use Each Correctly

Which will he do? To re-sign or to resign? Mastery of the correct application of either word is necessary for effective communication. Though their spellings suggest similarity, the truth is that they are worlds apart in meaning.

To re-sign is to sign again, whereas to resign is to quit a job. The hyphen becomes the distinguishing element. Getting these words wrong can lead to dire confusion in professional and legal contexts. 

This guide shall elucidate the definitions and correct pronunciations and usages of both terms. After reading this, you will never again be in doubt about when to use each word correctly.

📌 Table of Contents

🔍 Understanding the Confusion

• ❓ Why is There Confusion?
• ✍️ What Does “Re-sign” Mean?
• 🚪 What Does “Resign” Mean?

✨ Key Differences & Usage

• 📜 Why Hyphenate “Re-sign”?
• 🔄 “Re-sign” vs “Resign”: The Differences
• 🎯 Meaning and Intent
• 🗣 Pronunciation Difference
• 🔡 Spelling Clues

📖 Synonyms & Examples

• 🔄 Synonyms for “Re-sign”
• 🔄 Synonyms for “Resign”
• 📝 Examples in Context

🔥 Deep Dive: Origins & Common Mistakes

• 📜 Etymology of “Re-sign” and “Resign”
• 🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Why is There Confusion?

Confusion arises out of the similarity between the words in writing “re-sign” and “resign.” Single hyphen makes the difference between the two, but that small dash completely changes their meanings. 

They also sound different, adding another dimension of complexity in spoken form. However, “re-sign” has a long “e” sound, “resign,” a “z” sound.

It may sometimes get into contexts that can be interpreted wrongly. such mistakes can be quite costly, especially in contracts or answers to a legal question. Hence, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of both pronunciation and definition.

Must read: High Quality or High-Quality: Which One Is Correct?

What Does “Re-sign” Mean?

The word “re-sign” means to sign again Some of the times, this word is used when renewing with a contract, agreement, or deal. An athlete can “re-sign” with a team, in which case they are extending his contract. 

For example, a CEO might re-sign an important document that would require the signatures of many others.

The hyphen is crucial because if it is not there, it would mean something entirely different. If I say “She re-signed it,” one would easily think she has only left it.

Always remember that when this word is used, one should double check the spelling. Now, a re-sign and letter give you something to nibble on. And again, people would say “don’t go putting the written word up against re-sign.”

What Does “Resign” Mean?

It was stated in the word resign that a person quits or steps down from their position. He usually uses the word in workplaces when an employee or official is quitting or leaving his job.

A politician might “resign from office,” while an executive may resign or retire “due to a scandal.” This term has no hyphen, and its pronunciation is also different. The “z” sound is softer and is often encountered in formal resignation letters.

Using the wrong one in any particular context can lead to grave misunderstandings, so always understand the context when deciding what to use. 

Why Hyphenate “Re-sign”?

The hyphen in the word “re-sign” is paramount for avoiding ambiguity; lacking the hyphen, it would read as “resign,” an opposite meaning. The hyphen guarantees that the intended understanding is that of signing again. 

English hyphenates words that convey different meanings. Re-cover (to cover again), for example, has an opposite meaning to recover (to heal). 

In professional or legal documents, this hyphen is even more paramount. An omission of just one could lead to misunderstandings that could prove costly.

“Re-sign” vs “Resign”: The Differences

The “Re-sign and resign” are words that look pretty similar, yet they are total opposites. Re-sign denotes staying at a particular place, while resign indicates leaving an establishment.

The two words differ mainly in meaning, pronunciation, and spelling, which can turn events around if one is used incorrectly.

For instance, “He will re-sign next week” implies he’s signing an extension. But “He will resign next week” implies he’s resigning. Being mindful of context and correct hyphenation avoids huge confusion.

Meaning and Purpose

The fundamental difference among these words is the meaning conveyed. “Re-sign” is interpreted as renewal or continuing while “resign” implies leaving.

The contrast renders context most important in selecting between them.As an illustration, an employee may re-sign a contract to remain, or resign from a job to depart. 

Even in informal writing, a misplaced choice may raise avoidable misunderstandings. Always deliberate on what you wish to express before penning these words.

Pronunciation Difference

While the two rascals are somewhat similar in appearance, they are pronounced differently. The word “re-sign” sounds as if the trainer ending repeated the long “e,” hence “ree-sign,” while “resign” appears with a “z” sound, sounding more to “rez-ine.”

Spoken English must note this distinction, particularly in discussions on jobs or contracts. Getting it right in hearing avoids confusion. To be certain, pronounce the word out loud prior to applying it in written form.

Spelling Clues

One fast method of distinguishing them is to check the hyphen in “re-sign.” If there is a hyphen, then it is “sign again.” If no hyphen is present, then it is “quit.“

Another technique is to consider similar words. “Re-sign” is close to “rewrite” or “redo,” that is, doing something again. In contrast, “resign” is close to “resignation,” that is, leaving a job. Spelling can assist when unsure.

Synonyms for “Re-sign” and “Resign”

“Oftentimes, when one doesn’t want to use a certain word, it becomes incumbent to consult a thesaurus for other alternatives which can most clearly express your intention.”

Each term used in this lesson has alternative words that can remove any ambiguity. The most suitable synonym for any given term will depend on the surrounding wording in your sentence.

Synonyms for “Re-sign”:

• Renew
• Extend
• Continue
• Reaffirm
• Reapprove
• Agree again

Synonyms for “Resign”:

• Quit
• Step down
• Leave
• Retire
• Abdicate
• Withdraw

Examples in Context

Seeing these words in action makes their meanings clearer. Consider the following examples:

• “The coach decided to re-sign with the team for another season.” (He’s staying.)
• “The coach decided to resign after a losing season.” (He’s quitting.)
• “The CEO will re-sign the contract tomorrow.” (Signing again.)
• “The CEO will resign tomorrow.” (Stepping down.)

Examples of Re-sign:

It is simpler to understand “re-sign” if you look at it in examples of real-life usage. A basketball player could “re-sign with his company” following negotiation of a contract. A Chief Executive Officer would “re-sign an agreement” to continue a partnership.

A writer could “re-sign a publishing contract” for a subsequent book. A teacher would “re-sign his work contract” for another school year.

If an actor “re-signs with a production company,” they remain for additional seasons. These examples illustrate renewal, not resignation. Always double-check for the hyphen to prevent confusion.

Examples of Resign:

The term “resign” refers to leaving a position or role. A politician may “resign following a scandal” in order to protect their reputation.

A manager may “resign from his job” in order to seek other opportunities. An employee may “resign due to burnout” and quit the company.

A coach can “resign after a losing season” to own up. An artist might “resign from a project” in case of artistic differences. In all these, it’s about quitting and not renewing a commitment.

You will like: What Are the Plurals of ‘Ox’ and ‘Fox’? Why ‘Oxen’ and ‘Foxes’?

Etymology of “Re-sign” and “Resign”

The two words both have Latin roots but diverged. They have the same root “signare,” meaning “to mark” or “to sign.” But the prefix changes their meaning. “Re-” means “again,” and this results in “re-sign” (sign again).

At the same time, “resignare” in Latin was “to unseal,” eventually coming to mean “resign” (to relinquish). As time passed, English retained both words but gave them different connotations. The only apparent distinction today is the hyphen, but the implications are reversed.

Etymology of “Re-sign”

This word “re-sign” derives from the Latin term “re-“, which means again, and “-signare”, indicating to mark or sign.

Throughout history, it has still retained its original etymological meaning. In business and legal contexts, the term generally refers to the renewal of a document, agreement, or contract.

Unlike “resign,” it never signified quitting. The hyphen came in modern English to avoid confusion. Without it, people might confuse it with “resign,” which has an entirely different etymology.

Etymology of “Resign”

The word “resign” was derived from the Old French term “resigner,” meaning “relinquish or give up.” ” The Latin original “resignare” is “to unseal,” which came later to mean “to give up authority.” ” It had its current meaning by the 14th century as a voluntary act of leaving an office.

While “re-sign” has nothing to do with signing repeatedly, the pronunciation has changed over time as well, differentiating it from “re-sign.” The absence of a hyphen serves to distinguish it from its opposite.

Quit vs Resign: Clear Up the Confusion Once and For All

“Quit” and “resign” both signify the action of leaving a job, but differ in some important instances. The “Quit” carries a more informal connotation, as it finds its way to the spoken word. 

“Resign,” however, gives way to a more formal usage, along with legal definitions. The former sounds somewhat rude, while the latter surmises its official tone in the professional world.

Some employers would require a letter of resignation, but they would sometimes not ask for such when someone quits. The choice of a word can depend on various factors relating to context, tone, and setting. Let’s explore further.

When to Use “Quit”?

Use the word quit where one is informally quitting from a job, an activity, or a habit. Employees may use phrases such as “I quit my job” for sudden resignations.

A student may say, “I quit the soccer team”. “I quit smoking,” for example, can denote quitting a habit. Unlike “resign,” it does not always mean notice or formal resignation. “Quit” tends to be used more often than “resign.“

When to Use “Resign”?

Use “resign” in professional or formal contexts when one officially steps down. A CEO may “resign from his position” in a company. A politician may “resign from office” amid scandal. Workers tend to “resign by submitting a resignation letter.”

Unlike “quit,” resigning typically involves a process. It’s typical in legal, government, and business contexts. In case of doubt, use “resign” for professional resignations.

“Quit” and “Resign”: (As Verbs)

Both terms are verbs but differ in connotations. “Quit” suggests a more informal, somewhat blunt, or even emotional tone; “Resign” is neutral, civil, and impersonal. 

Saying “I quit my job” has rather harsh uncomfortable overtones, while “I resigned from my job” comes off as a deliberative act.

In writing and in business contexts, one would use “resign,” whereas in casual conversation “quit” would predominate.

Usage of “Quit” as a Verb

“Quit” is applied to jobs, habits, and obligations. One may “quit a job” when they depart unexpectedly. People may also tend to “quit a hobby” when they lose interest in actively engaging with it.

It is also used in reference to quitting habits, such as “quit drinking” or “quit procrastinating.” “Quit” does not strictly denote a proper formal leaving: it contrasts with “resign.” It usually suggests an instant or emotional choice.

Usage of “Resign” as a Verb

“Resign” is used to formally leave an office. A judge may take his leave from the court after a long time on the bench. An employee may pack his/her things and walk out of a company to a blank space with new professional experience.

Resigning tends to have notice or documentation. It’s also used for government and political offices. When professionalism is necessary, “resign” is a better term to use.

“Quit” and “Resign”: (As Adjectives)

‘Quit’ and ‘resign‘ are the verbs which are used more frequently; however, at times they may also be used as adjectives. 

Here, they define a status or situation and not an activity. “Quit” refers to someone who has ceased doing something, usually once and for all.

“Resign” describes a person’s attitude, typically one of acceptance or submission. These adjectives appear less often than their verb forms but still have important uses.

Context determines whether they work correctly in a sentence. Let’s explore how each functions as an adjective.

Usage of “Quit” as an Adjective

When employed as an adjective, “quit” is released, free, or done with something. A person could convey it using the following expression, “I’m quit of my bad habits,” which implies that one is free of bad habits. Old English actually meant “quit” exempt or free, like “She is quit of all debts.”

This application is unusual in contemporary speech but is found in writing. The adjective use tends to be definitive, with the implication of not being able to turn back. It’s not usually heard in daily language these days.

Usage of “Resign” as an Adjective

“Resign” expresses a condition of being passive or accepting. To “resign to their fate” means to accept an outcome with no resistance. While “quit” suggests stopping, “resign” suggests accepting passively

 It can imply defeat, as in “He gave a resign sigh, knowing he had no choice.” This usage is found more in literature and formal texts. It conveys emotion and surrender, rather than action.

Common Errors

Confusing “quit” and “resign” in formal writing is one of the largest errors. Most individuals use “quit” when it should be “resign.” “The CEO quit” reads informally, whereas “The CEO resigned” is professional.

Another error is using “resign” alone, which gets misinterpreted. Some also interchange “resign” with “re-sign,” which means the opposite. Cross-checking hyphens and context prevents such errors.

Synonyms for “Quit” and “Resign”

Both terms have other words that can explain meaning and tone. The appropriate synonym relies on whether or not the scenario is formal or informal. Precise words guarantee clear communication.

Synonyms for “Quit”

• Leave
• Stop
• Drop
• Abandon
• Cease
• Give up

Synonyms for “Resign”

• Step down
• Withdraw
• Relinquish
• Retire
• Surrender
• Abdicate

Etymology of “Quit” and “Resign”

The etymology of “to quit” and “to resign” goes all the way back to Latin and Old French. Since then, both have evolved over the years to assume their present-day meanings.

In the original Latin, “quit” meant free or clear, whereas “resign” meant “to give up.” ” Their etymological origins point to how languages have changed across time.

Etymology of “Quit”

Thus the term “to quit” ultimately comes from Latin “quietus,” meaning free or at rest. In Old French, “quiter” translated to release or clear something.

English modified over time to take it to leave or cease from an action. “Quit of responsibility” once used to describe being freed from duty. Now the term generally used is to relinquish a habit or a job voluntarily.

Etymology of “Resign”

The term “resign” is derived from the Latin word “resignare,” indicating to unseal or leave. “Resigner” meant to abandon an office in Old French.

By the 14th century, it was linked with formal resignation. While “quit” implies suddenness, “resign” implies orderly withdrawal. Its sense has been steady in legal and professional contexts.

You will like: Metaphor vs Hyperbole: Explained with Examples

FAQ’S

Can I use “quit” for “resign?”

Yes and no. “Quit” is informal, whereas “resign” is formal. Use “resign” in formal situations.

Why is “re-sign” hyphenated?

To distinguish between “re-sign” (to sign again) and to resign (to give up on). 

What is the distinction between “quit” and “resign” as modifiers?

“Quit” signifies being freed from a situation while “resign” denotes grudging acceptance into a situation. 

Are “quit” or “resign” synonyms?

No. The term “quit” means to terminate promptly, whereas “resign” is more formal and deliberate. The synonyms of the terms follow suit. 

Is “quitted” a word?

It was, but nowadays “quit” is the past tense of choice in modern English.

When should I use “resign” instead of “quit”?

For formal occasions like resigning from a job or other offices, “resign” is the choice. “Quit,” on the contrary, is for informal occasions.

conclusion

Important distinctions are made between “re-sign” and “resign.” To “Re-sign” means to sign again. On the other hand, “resign” means to leave a job. The hyphen that makes the two words has totally distinct meanings from one another and creates greater possibilities of misunderstanding in both professional and legal matters.

When you would be signing a contract renewal, you would “re-sign.” When you resign from a position, you would say “resign.” Have a spell-checker and context-tool ready at all times.

And with these rules, one will be able to communicate and write with better accuracy.  If you’re unsure, recall: the hyphen holds onto your job, but its removal means you’re resigning it.