इस्तीफा in 30 Seconds
- इस्तीफा means formal resignation from a job or position.
- It's a noun used for the act of quitting officially.
- Commonly used in professional and political contexts.
- Often accompanied by an 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter).
- Meaning
- इस्तीफा (istifa) is a noun that means 'resignation'. It is the formal act of giving up a job or a position of authority. When someone decides to leave their current employment or role, they submit their इस्तीफा to their employer or the relevant authority.
- Contexts of Use
- This word is commonly used in professional settings. You might hear it when a politician resigns from their post, a CEO steps down, or an employee decides to leave their company. It's a significant event that often involves formal procedures. People use 'इस्तीफा' to discuss job changes, career transitions, and sometimes even political upheavals. The act of resignation can be due to various reasons, such as seeking new opportunities, personal circumstances, or dissatisfaction with the current role.
- Formal vs. Informal
- 'इस्तीफा' is generally a formal word. While you might hear people casually say they are 'quitting', the formal act of submitting a resignation is referred to as giving an 'इस्तीफा'. The accompanying documents are often called 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter). For instance, a company announcement might state, 'Mr. Sharma has submitted his इस्तीफा effective next month.'
The manager accepted the employee's इस्तीफा.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- In Hindi, 'इस्तीफा' is a noun. It can be the subject or object of a sentence. Common verbs used with 'इस्तीफा' include 'देना' (to give), 'स्वीकार करना' (to accept), 'पेश करना' (to submit/present), and 'वापस लेना' (to withdraw).
- Subject of the Sentence
- When 'इस्तीफा' is the subject, it often refers to the act itself. For example: 'उसका इस्तीफा चौंकाने वाला था।' (His resignation was surprising.) Here, 'इस्तीफा' is the thing that was surprising.
- Object of the Sentence
- More commonly, 'इस्तीफा' is the object of a verb, indicating an action performed on it. The most frequent construction is 'इस्तीफा देना' (to give resignation). For example: 'मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है।' (I have given my resignation.)
- With 'Accepting' and 'Submitting'
- You will often hear about the acceptance or submission of a resignation. 'कंपनी ने उसका इस्तीफा स्वीकार कर लिया।' (The company accepted his resignation.) 'कर्मचारी ने अपना इस्तीफा प्रबंधक को पेश किया।' (The employee submitted his resignation to the manager.)
- Possessive Forms
- You can also use possessive pronouns with 'इस्तीफा'. For example: 'मेरा इस्तीफा अभी तक स्वीकृत नहीं हुआ है।' (My resignation has not been accepted yet.)
She decided to submit her इस्तीफा after a year.
- News and Media
- The word 'इस्तीफा' is very common in news reports, especially concerning politics and corporate leadership. Headlines often announce, 'मंत्री का इस्तीफा' (Minister's resignation) or 'सीईओ ने इस्तीफा दिया' (CEO resigned). You'll hear it in discussions about government changes, company restructuring, or scandals that lead to people stepping down.
- Workplace Conversations
- In professional environments, 'इस्तीफा' is used when employees are discussing their departure or when HR announces someone is leaving. Colleagues might ask, 'क्या तुमने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया?' (Did you give your resignation?) or managers might discuss accepting someone's 'इस्तीफा'.
- Formal Announcements
- Official announcements, such as those made in government bodies, large corporations, or educational institutions, frequently use the term 'इस्तीफा'. This ensures clarity and formality in communicating departures from significant positions.
- Personal Discussions about Careers
- When people talk about their career paths, job satisfaction, or future plans, they might mention the possibility or act of resignation using 'इस्तीफा'. For instance, someone might say, 'अगर हालात नहीं सुधरे तो मैं इस्तीफा दे दूंगा।' (If the situation doesn't improve, I will resign.)
The news reported the mayor's इस्तीफा this morning.
- Confusing with 'Quit' in General
- A common mistake is using 'इस्तीफा' for any kind of quitting, like quitting a hobby or a game. 'इस्तीफा' is specifically for formal positions or jobs. For general quitting, words like 'छोड़ना' (chhodna) are more appropriate. For example, you wouldn't say 'मैंने खेल से इस्तीफा दे दिया'; you would say 'मैंने खेल छोड़ दिया'.
- Incorrect Verb Usage
- While 'इस्तीफा देना' (to give resignation) is the most common and correct way to use the verb, learners might incorrectly try to conjugate 'इस्तीफा' itself as a verb or use other verbs inappropriately. For instance, saying 'मैंने इस्तीफा किया' instead of 'मैंने इस्तीफा दिया' is incorrect. Remember that 'इस्तीफा' is a noun.
- Using it for Non-Formal Roles
- Applying 'इस्तीफा' to informal roles or temporary commitments can sound awkward. If you're leaving a volunteer group or a short-term project where no formal position was held, 'इस्तीफा' might not be the best word. 'छोड़ना' or 'आगे से भाग न लेना' (not participating further) might be better.
- Pluralization
- As a noun referring to the act of resignation, 'इस्तीफा' typically does not have a plural form in common usage. You wouldn't usually say 'इस्तीफे' unless referring to multiple distinct resignation letters or acts in a very specific, perhaps legal, context. Stick to the singular form for the act itself.
Incorrect: I resigned from the club. (मैंने क्लब से इस्तीफा दिया।) Correct: I quit the club. (मैंने क्लब छोड़ दिया।)
- Alternative: छोड़ना (chhodna)
- Meaning: To leave, to quit, to abandon.
Usage: This is a general-purpose verb used for leaving almost anything – a place, a habit, a relationship, or even a job in a casual sense.
Difference: While 'इस्तीफा' is formal and specifically about relinquishing a job or official position, 'छोड़ना' is informal and broad. You give an 'इस्तीफा' from your job, but you 'छोड़' a party or 'छोड़' a bad habit.
Example: 'मैंने अपनी नौकरी छोड़ दी।' (I left my job.) - This can mean resignation, but it's less formal than saying 'मैंने इस्तीफा दे दिया'. - Alternative: पदत्याग (padyāg)
- Meaning: Relinquishment of a post or position.
Usage: This is a more formal and less common synonym for 'इस्तीफा', often found in very official or literary contexts.
Difference: 'पदत्याग' is more specific to giving up a 'पद' (post/rank). It carries a very formal tone and might be used in historical or legal documents. 'इस्तीफा' is more widely understood and used in everyday professional communication.
Example: 'राजा ने अपने पुत्र के पक्ष में पदत्याग कर दिया।' (The king relinquished his throne in favor of his son.) - Alternative: त्यागपत्र (tyāgpatra)
- Meaning: Resignation letter.
Usage: This specifically refers to the written document submitted as a resignation.
Difference: 'इस्तीफा' is the act of resigning, while 'त्यागपत्र' is the letter that formalizes this act. You give an 'इस्तीफा' by submitting a 'त्यागपत्र'.
Example: 'मैंने आज अपना त्यागपत्र जमा कर दिया।' (I submitted my resignation letter today.)
He submitted his इस्तीफा (resignation) in the form of a त्यागपत्र (resignation letter).
How Formal Is It?
""
""
""
""
""
Fun Fact
While 'इस्तीफा' is a common word for resignation in Hindi and Urdu, its literal Arabic root is not directly related to quitting a job. The semantic shift occurred over centuries of linguistic borrowing and cultural exchange.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'f' sound as 'v'.
- Incorrectly stressing the first syllable.
- Adding an extra sound after 'faa'.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'इस्तीफा' is common in news and professional contexts, making it moderately difficult for beginner readers but accessible for intermediate learners. Understanding its nuances and formal usage requires practice.
Using 'इस्तीफा' correctly in writing, especially in formal contexts like resignation letters, requires understanding its grammatical function and appropriate collocations. Incorrect usage can lead to miscommunication.
Pronouncing and using 'इस्तीफा' in spoken Hindi, particularly in professional settings, requires confidence and an understanding of its formal register. Learners might hesitate to use it correctly.
Recognizing 'इस्तीफा' in spoken Hindi, especially in news broadcasts or formal discussions, is achievable for intermediate learners. Its distinct sound and context make it relatively easy to identify once familiar.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using the present perfect tense with 'इस्तीफा देना' to indicate a completed action with present relevance.
मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है। (I have given my resignation.)
Forming questions about resignation using question words like 'क्या', 'क्यों', 'कब'.
क्या आपने इस्तीफा दे दिया? (Did you resign?) क्यों इस्तीफा दिया? (Why did you resign?)
Using postpositions like 'से' (from) and 'के बाद' (after) with 'इस्तीफा'.
मैंने नौकरी से इस्तीफा दिया। (I resigned from the job.) उनके इस्तीफे के बाद, नया सीईओ आया। (After his resignation, the new CEO came.)
The formation of compound phrases like 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter).
यह मेरा इस्तीफा पत्र है। (This is my resignation letter.)
Using the passive voice when discussing the acceptance of resignation.
मेरा इस्तीफा स्वीकार कर लिया गया है। (My resignation has been accepted.)
Examples by Level
मैं काम छोड़ रहा हूँ।
I am leaving work.
Simple present continuous tense used for an action happening now or in the near future.
यह मेरा आखिरी दिन है।
This is my last day.
Simple present tense to state a fact.
मुझे नई नौकरी मिली है।
I have got a new job.
Present perfect tense indicating a completed action with present relevance.
मैं कल नहीं आऊँगा।
I will not come tomorrow.
Simple future tense expressing a future intention or prediction.
क्या आप यहाँ काम करते हैं?
Do you work here?
Simple present tense used for asking about current occupation.
यह कंपनी अच्छी है।
This company is good.
Simple present tense to describe a noun.
मेरा मैनेजर अच्छा है।
My manager is good.
Simple present tense to describe a person.
मैं घर जा रहा हूँ।
I am going home.
Present continuous tense for an action in progress.
मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है।
I have given my resignation.
Present perfect tense used for an action completed in the past with present relevance. 'इस्तीफा देना' is the verb phrase.
क्या उन्होंने आपका इस्तीफा स्वीकार किया?
Did they accept your resignation?
Past tense question. 'स्वीकार करना' means to accept.
वह अपना इस्तीफा जल्द ही पेश करेगा।
He will submit his resignation soon.
Simple future tense. 'पेश करना' means to submit or present.
कंपनी ने उसके इस्तीफे को मंजूरी दे दी।
The company approved his resignation.
Past tense. 'मंजूरी देना' means to approve.
मुझे अपने इस्तीफे का कारण बताना पड़ा।
I had to state the reason for my resignation.
Past tense modal verb 'पड़ा' (had to). 'कारण बताना' means to state the reason.
क्या आप अपना इस्तीफा वापस ले सकते हैं?
Can you withdraw your resignation?
Modal verb 'सकना' (can) used in a question. 'वापस लेना' means to withdraw.
उनके इस्तीफे ने सबको हैरान कर दिया।
His resignation surprised everyone.
Past tense. 'हैरान करना' means to surprise.
यह एक अप्रत्याशित इस्तीफा था।
This was an unexpected resignation.
Past tense. 'अप्रत्याशित' means unexpected.
कई कर्मचारियों ने बेहतर अवसरों के लिए इस्तीफा दे दिया।
Many employees resigned for better opportunities.
Past tense. 'बेहतर अवसर' means better opportunities.
प्रबंधन ने तत्काल प्रभाव से इस्तीफे को स्वीकार कर लिया।
Management accepted the resignation with immediate effect.
Past tense. 'तत्काल प्रभाव से' means with immediate effect. 'प्रबंधन' means management.
उसने व्यक्तिगत कारणों से इस्तीफा देने का फैसला किया।
He decided to resign for personal reasons.
Past tense. 'व्यक्तिगत कारण' means personal reasons. 'फैसला करना' means to decide.
क्या आप अपने इस्तीफे के बारे में बात करना चाहेंगे?
Would you like to talk about your resignation?
Conditional tense ('चाहेंगे' - would like). Polite invitation.
यह कंपनी कर्मचारियों के इस्तीफे से जूझ रही है।
This company is struggling with employee resignations.
Present continuous tense. 'जूझना' means to struggle. The plural 'इस्तीफों' is used here to imply multiple resignations.
उनके इस्तीफे के बाद, नए सीईओ की नियुक्ति की गई।
After his resignation, a new CEO was appointed.
Past tense passive voice. 'नियुक्ति की गई' means was appointed.
इस्तीफा देने से पहले, उसने अपने सहकर्मियों को सूचित किया।
Before resigning, he informed his colleagues.
Adverbial clause of time. 'सूचित करना' means to inform.
क्या कंपनी ने इस्तीफे के लिए कोई नोटिस अवधि निर्धारित की है?
Has the company set any notice period for resignation?
Present perfect tense. 'नोटिस अवधि' means notice period. 'निर्धारित करना' means to set or determine.
अप्रत्याशित इस्तीफे ने कंपनी के शेयर की कीमतों में गिरावट ला दी।
The unexpected resignation caused a drop in the company's share prices.
Past tense. 'शेयर की कीमतें' means share prices. 'गिरावट लाना' means to cause a drop.
राजनीतिक उथल-पुथल के कारण कई मंत्रियों ने इस्तीफा दे दिया।
Due to political turmoil, many ministers resigned.
Past tense. 'राजनीतिक उथल-पुथल' means political turmoil. 'मंत्री' means minister.
यह फैसला मेरे इस्तीफे के बाद लिया गया था।
This decision was taken after my resignation.
Past tense passive voice. 'फैसला लिया गया था' means decision was taken.
क्या उनके इस्तीफे के पीछे कोई खास वजह थी?
Was there a specific reason behind his resignation?
Past tense interrogative. 'खास वजह' means specific reason. 'पीछे' means behind.
कर्मचारी अक्सर बेहतर वेतन और विकास के अवसरों के लिए इस्तीफा देते हैं।
Employees often resign for better salary and growth opportunities.
Simple present tense, indicating a general truth or common occurrence. 'वेतन' means salary. 'विकास के अवसर' means growth opportunities.
कंपनी को अपने सबसे प्रतिभाशाली कर्मचारियों के इस्तीफे से जूझना पड़ रहा है।
The company is struggling with the resignations of its most talented employees.
Present continuous tense. 'प्रतिभाशाली' means talented. 'जूझना पड़ रहा है' means is struggling.
उन्होंने अपने इस्तीफे को वापस लेने की कोशिश की, लेकिन देर हो चुकी थी।
He tried to withdraw his resignation, but it was too late.
Past tense. 'कोशिश करना' means to try. 'देर हो चुकी थी' means it was too late.
क्या इस पद के लिए कोई न्यूनतम सेवा अवधि है, जिसके बाद इस्तीफा दिया जा सकता है?
Is there a minimum service period for this post after which one can resign?
Present tense interrogative. 'न्यूनतम सेवा अवधि' means minimum service period. 'पद' means post.
अप्रत्याशित इस्तीफे की श्रृंखला ने निगम के भविष्य पर गंभीर प्रश्नचिह्न लगा दिए।
A series of unexpected resignations cast serious doubt on the corporation's future.
Past tense. 'श्रृंखला' means series. 'निगम' means corporation. 'प्रश्नचिह्न लगाना' means to cast doubt.
भ्रष्टाचार के आरोपों के चलते, उन्होंने अपने पद से इस्तीफा देने का फैसला किया।
Due to allegations of corruption, he decided to resign from his post.
Past tense. 'भ्रष्टाचार के आरोप' means allegations of corruption. 'पद' means post.
कर्मचारियों के बीच असंतोष के कारण इस्तीफे की लहर दौड़ गई।
A wave of resignations swept through the employees due to dissatisfaction.
Past tense. 'असंतोष' means dissatisfaction. 'लहर दौड़ गई' means a wave swept through.
क्या कंपनी के नियमों में इस्तीफे के लिए कोई विशिष्ट प्रक्रिया निर्धारित है?
Is there a specific procedure for resignation stipulated in the company's regulations?
Present tense interrogative. 'नियम' means regulations. 'विशिष्ट प्रक्रिया' means specific procedure. 'निर्धारित' means stipulated.
उन्होंने अपनी महत्वाकांक्षाओं को पूरा करने के लिए एक सुरक्षित नौकरी से इस्तीफा दे दिया।
He resigned from a secure job to pursue his ambitions.
Past tense. 'महत्वाकांक्षाओं' means ambitions. 'सुरक्षित नौकरी' means secure job.
यह इस्तीफे का दौर तब तक जारी रहेगा जब तक कि कार्यस्थल की संस्कृति में सुधार नहीं होता।
This period of resignations will continue until the workplace culture improves.
Future tense. 'कार्यस्थल की संस्कृति' means workplace culture. 'सुधार होना' means to improve.
उनके इस्तीफे ने संगठन में एक महत्वपूर्ण नेतृत्व रिक्तता छोड़ दी।
His resignation left a significant leadership vacuum in the organization.
Past tense. 'संगठन' means organization. 'महत्वपूर्ण नेतृत्व रिक्तता' means significant leadership vacuum.
क्या इस्तीफा देने से पहले नोटिस अवधि का पालन करना अनिवार्य है?
Is it mandatory to serve the notice period before resigning?
Present tense interrogative. 'अनिवार्य' means mandatory. 'पालन करना' means to follow.
राजनीतिक अस्थिरता के चरम पर, सरकार ने कई अप्रत्याशित इस्तीफे देखे।
At the height of political instability, the government witnessed several unexpected resignations.
Past tense. 'चरम' means height/peak. 'राजनीतिक अस्थिरता' means political instability. 'देखे' means witnessed.
कंपनी के पुनर्गठन के कारण, वरिष्ठ प्रबंधन के सदस्यों ने सामूहिक इस्तीफा देने का निर्णय लिया।
Due to the company's restructuring, senior management members decided to resign collectively.
Past tense. 'पुनर्गठन' means restructuring. 'वरिष्ठ प्रबंधन' means senior management. 'सामूहिक' means collectively. 'निर्णय लेना' means to decide.
नैतिक दुविधाओं के चलते, उन्होंने अपने प्रतिष्ठित पद से इस्तीफा देने को प्राथमिकता दी।
Due to ethical dilemmas, he prioritized resigning from his prestigious position.
Past tense. 'नैतिक दुविधाओं' means ethical dilemmas. 'प्रतिष्ठित पद' means prestigious position. 'प्राथमिकता दी' means prioritized.
यह इस्तीफा कंपनी के इतिहास में एक महत्वपूर्ण मोड़ साबित हुआ।
This resignation proved to be a significant turning point in the company's history.
Past tense. 'इतिहास' means history. 'महत्वपूर्ण मोड़' means significant turning point. 'साबित हुआ' means proved to be.
क्या इस्तीफे की प्रक्रिया में कर्मचारियों को उचित परामर्श प्रदान किया जाता है?
Are employees provided with adequate counseling during the resignation process?
Present tense interrogative, passive voice. 'उचित परामर्श' means adequate counseling. 'प्रक्रिया' means process.
उनके इस्तीफे के बाद, कंपनी की प्रतिष्ठा पर गहरा असर पड़ा।
After his resignation, the company's reputation was deeply affected.
Past tense. 'प्रतिष्ठा' means reputation. 'गहरा असर पड़ा' means deeply affected.
क्या इस्तीफे के लिए कोई न्यूनतम सेवा अवधि की आवश्यकता होती है?
Is there a minimum service period required for resignation?
Present tense interrogative. 'आवश्यकता होती है' means is required.
यह इस्तीफे की एक श्रृंखला थी जिसने अंततः नेतृत्व परिवर्तन को प्रेरित किया।
It was a series of resignations that ultimately prompted a leadership change.
Past tense. 'प्रेरित किया' means prompted or inspired.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To give resignation; to resign.
मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है और अब मैं नई नौकरी की तलाश कर रहा हूँ।
— Resignation due to personal reasons.
उसने व्यक्तिगत कारणों से इस्तीफा देने का फैसला किया।
— Resignation with immediate effect.
उन्होंने तत्काल प्रभाव से इस्तीफा दे दिया।
— Collective resignation.
वेतन वृद्धि न होने पर कर्मचारियों ने सामूहिक इस्तीफा दिया।
Often Confused With
'छोड़ना' is a general verb for 'to leave' or 'to quit'. While it can be used for jobs, 'इस्तीफा' specifically refers to the formal act of resigning from a position or employment.
'निवृत्ति' means retirement, which is a specific type of resignation usually occurring at the end of a career. 'इस्तीफा' can happen at any stage of employment.
'अवकाश' means leave or vacation, which is a temporary absence from work. It is fundamentally different from 'इस्तीफा', which is a permanent departure.
Idioms & Expressions
— To give up, to surrender, to resign oneself to fate. While not directly 'इस्तीफा', it implies a surrender or quitting when facing insurmountable odds.
जब सारे रास्ते बंद हो गए, तो उसने हाथ जोड़ लिए। (When all paths were closed, he gave up.)
— To turn one's back, to abandon or desert. In a professional context, this can imply an abrupt or unceremonious departure, akin to an informal resignation.
मुश्किल समय में उसने अपने दोस्तों को पीठ दिखा दी। (He abandoned his friends in difficult times.)
— To take one's leave, to depart. This is a general phrase for leaving, and can be used in the context of leaving a job, though less formal than 'इस्तीफा'.
अब मुझे अपना रास्ता लेना होगा। (Now I must take my leave.)
— To wash one's hands of something, to disassociate oneself completely. This implies a strong desire to be free from responsibility, which can lead to resignation.
वह इस झंझट से पल्ला झाड़ना चाहता था। (He wanted to wash his hands of this trouble.)
— To step aside, to withdraw from a situation. Similar to 'इस्तीफा', it means to remove oneself from a position or responsibility.
समस्या बढ़ने पर उसने किनारे कर लिया। (As the problem grew, he stepped aside.)
— To refuse to face something. This refusal can lead to resignation when faced with difficult challenges.
वह अपनी गलतियों का सामना करने से इनकार कर रहा था। (He was refusing to face his mistakes.)
— To not move forward, to stop progressing. This can be a reason for resignation if one feels stuck.
जब प्रगति रुक गई, तो उसने आगे न बढ़ने का फैसला किया। (When progress stopped, he decided not to move forward.)
— To accept defeat, to give up. This is a direct consequence of not being able to continue, leading to resignation.
लंबे संघर्ष के बाद, उसने हार मान ली। (After a long struggle, he accepted defeat.)
— To stop working. This is a very direct and informal way to express quitting a job.
उसने अचानक काम बंद कर दिया। (He suddenly stopped working.)
— To pack one's bags, to leave permanently. This is an informal phrase for leaving a place or job, implying a complete departure.
नौकरी छूटने के बाद, उसने बोरी बिस्तरा बांध लिया। (After losing his job, he packed his bags.)
Easily Confused
Both 'इस्तीफा' and 'छोड़ना' can relate to leaving a job.
'इस्तीफा' is a noun for the formal act of resignation from a job or official position. 'छोड़ना' is a verb meaning 'to leave' or 'to quit' and can be used more broadly for leaving places, habits, or jobs in a less formal way. For instance, you 'इस्तीफा देते हैं' from a company, but you 'नौकरी छोड़ देते हैं'.
मैंने कंपनी से इस्तीफा दे दिया। (Formal resignation) मैंने अपनी पुरानी नौकरी छोड़ दी। (General leaving of a job)
Both terms are related to leaving a job.
'इस्तीफा' refers to the act of resigning, the decision to leave. 'त्यागपत्र' specifically refers to the written document, the resignation letter, that is submitted to formalize the resignation. You give an 'इस्तीफा' by submitting a 'त्यागपत्र'.
उसने अपना इस्तीफा पत्र लिखा। (He wrote his resignation letter.) उसने इस्तीफा दे दिया। (He gave his resignation.)
Both relate to giving up a position.
'इस्तीफा' is the general term for resignation from any job or position. 'पदत्याग' is a more formal and less common term, specifically meaning 'relinquishment of a post or rank', often used for high-ranking positions like rulers or senior officials.
प्रधानमंत्री ने इस्तीफा दे दिया। (The Prime Minister resigned.) राजा ने अपने पुत्र के पक्ष में पदत्याग किया। (The king relinquished his throne in favor of his son.)
Both imply leaving a job or role.
'इस्तीफा' is a voluntary act of leaving a job at any time. 'निवृत्ति' specifically means retirement, typically occurring at the end of a career, often due to age or completion of service. It's a planned departure, while 'इस्तीफा' can be sudden.
उन्होंने अपनी सेवा से इस्तीफा दे दिया। (He resigned from his service.) वे अगले साल अपनी निवृत्ति लेंगे। (He will take his retirement next year.)
Both involve not being at work.
'इस्तीफा' is a permanent departure from a job. 'अवकाश' means leave or vacation, which is a temporary absence from work, with the expectation of returning. You don't submit an 'इस्तीफा' for a vacation; you request 'अवकाश'.
मैंने दो दिन का अवकाश लिया है। (I have taken two days of leave.) उसने स्थायी रूप से इस्तीफा दे दिया। (He resigned permanently.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + इस्तीफा + देना (past tense)
मैंने इस्तीफा दिया।
Subject + इस्तीफा + स्वीकार करना (past tense)
कंपनी ने इस्तीफा स्वीकार किया।
Subject + [Adjective] + इस्तीफा + होना (past tense)
यह एक अप्रत्याशित इस्तीफा था।
Subject + [Reason] + से + इस्तीफा + देना
उसने व्यक्तिगत कारणों से इस्तीफा दिया।
Subject + [Time] + तक + इस्तीफा + देना
मैं अगले महीने तक इस्तीफा दे दूँगा।
Subject + [Noun Phrase] + के + बाद + इस्तीफा + होना
उसके इस्तीफे के बाद, नया नेता आया।
Subject + [Verb Phrase] + इस्तीफा + देना
उन्होंने बेहतर अवसरों के लिए इस्तीफा देने का फैसला किया।
Subject + [Adverbial Phrase] + इस्तीफा + देना
उन्होंने तत्काल प्रभाव से इस्तीफा दे दिया।
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in professional and news contexts.
-
Using 'इस्तीफा' for general quitting.
→
Using 'छोड़ना'.
'इस्तीफा' is specifically for formal jobs or positions. For casual quitting, like leaving a game or a party, 'छोड़ना' is the correct verb. For example, you say 'मैंने नौकरी छोड़ी' (I quit my job) or 'मैंने इस्तीफा दिया' (I resigned).
-
Treating 'इस्तीफा' as a verb.
→
Using 'इस्तीफा देना' or 'इस्तीफा स्वीकार करना'.
'इस्तीफा' is a noun. It needs a verb like 'देना' (to give) or 'स्वीकार करना' (to accept) to form a complete action. Saying 'मैंने इस्तीफा किया' is incorrect; it should be 'मैंने इस्तीफा दिया'.
-
Confusing 'इस्तीफा' with 'त्यागपत्र'.
→
'इस्तीफा' is the act, 'त्यागपत्र' is the letter.
'इस्तीफा' refers to the action of resigning. 'त्यागपत्र' is the physical resignation letter you write and submit. You give an 'इस्तीफा' by submitting a 'त्यागपत्र'.
-
Using 'इस्तीफा' for temporary absence.
→
Using 'अवकाश'.
'इस्तीफा' means permanent departure from a job. For temporary absences like leave or vacation, the correct word is 'अवकाश' (avakash).
-
Overusing 'इस्तीफा' in informal contexts.
→
Using 'छोड़ना' or other suitable phrases.
While technically one could say they are resigning from a club, it sounds overly formal. For informal groups or casual commitments, 'छोड़ना' (to leave) or 'बाहर निकलना' (to exit) is more appropriate than 'इस्तीफा'.
Tips
Verb Collocations
Remember that 'इस्तीफा' is a noun. It is most commonly used with the verb 'देना' (dena) to form the phrase 'इस्तीफा देना' (to resign). You will also frequently encounter 'स्वीकार करना' (sweekar karna - to accept) and 'वापस लेना' (vapas lena - to withdraw) in relation to resignation.
Formal Register
'इस्तीफा' belongs to a formal register. Use it when discussing professional departures, official positions, or in news and formal writing. For casual quitting, use the verb 'छोड़ना' (chhodna).
Related Terms
To enrich your understanding, learn related terms like 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter), 'पद' (post/position), and 'नौकरी' (job). Understanding these will help you use 'इस्तीफा' more effectively in context.
Sound Association
Try associating the sound of 'इस्तीफा' with English phrases like 'Is, Tiffa, I quit!' to help remember its meaning. The similar sounds can create a memorable link.
Cultural Nuance
In Indian culture, resignation can sometimes carry more weight than in Western cultures. It might be viewed as a significant step, and sometimes employers might try to persuade an employee to reconsider their 'इस्तीफा'.
Sentence Construction
Practice forming sentences using 'इस्तीफा' in different grammatical structures. Try to create sentences about hypothetical resignations, accepting resignations, or discussing reasons for resignation.
Stress Pattern
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable: is-TEE-fa. Correct pronunciation is key to being understood, especially in formal settings.
Distinguish from 'छोड़ना'
Always differentiate between 'इस्तीफा' (formal resignation) and 'छोड़ना' (general quitting/leaving). Using 'इस्तीफा' for casual departures can sound out of place.
Resignation Letter
When writing a formal resignation letter ('इस्तीफा पत्र'), be concise, professional, and state your intention clearly. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity is also a good practice.
Announcing Resignation
When announcing your resignation verbally, it's best to do so respectfully and professionally, typically to your direct supervisor, before making it known to others.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine someone saying 'Is, Tiffa, I quit!' when they are tired of their job. The sounds 'Is', 'Tiffa' can remind you of 'इस्तीफा'.
Visual Association
Picture a person standing at a crossroads, one path leading to a secure office building, and the other path leading away from it, with a sign that says 'इस्तीफा'. The person is walking away from the office.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'इस्तीफा' in three different sentences about hypothetical job situations. For example, 'What if your boss asks for your resignation?' or 'Imagine you have to give your resignation tomorrow.'
Word Origin
The word 'इस्तीफा' originates from the Arabic word 'istifā' (استِفَاء), which means 'to ask for something in full' or 'to resign'. It entered Hindi through Persian and Urdu.
Original meaning: In Arabic, it relates to receiving something completely, but in the context of its adoption into Indo-Aryan languages, it evolved to mean the act of completely relinquishing a position.
Semitic (Arabic) -> Indo-Aryan (Hindi/Urdu)Cultural Context
When discussing resignation, be mindful that it can be a sensitive topic for individuals who have recently resigned or are considering it. It often involves personal and professional challenges.
In English-speaking countries, resignation is a standard part of professional life. The term 'resignation' is universally understood and used in formal and informal settings. The process often involves a formal letter and a notice period.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Professional Employment
- मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है।
- क्या आपका इस्तीफा स्वीकार हो गया?
- यह मेरा इस्तीफा पत्र है।
Politics and Public Office
- मंत्री ने इस्तीफा दिया।
- उनके इस्तीफे ने हलचल मचा दी।
- पद से इस्तीफा।
Discussing Career Changes
- मैं बेहतर अवसरों के लिए इस्तीफा दे रहा हूँ।
- इस्तीफा देने के बाद क्या करोगे?
- इस्तीफा देना एक बड़ा फैसला है।
Formal Announcements
- तत्काल प्रभाव से इस्तीफा।
- नोटिस अवधि के बाद इस्तीफा।
- सामूहिक इस्तीफे की खबर।
Legal or Official Documents
- इस्तीफे की प्रक्रिया का पालन करें।
- इस्तीफा स्वीकार करने की सहमति।
- इस्तीफे के संबंध में।
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever thought about what makes someone decide to resign?"
"What are the most common reasons people give for their resignation?"
"How does the concept of 'इस्तीफा' differ in formal versus informal situations?"
"What's the etiquette when someone announces their resignation at work?"
"Imagine you have to write a resignation letter. What would be the key points you'd include?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time you or someone you know resigned from a position. What were the feelings associated with that 'इस्तीफा'?
If you were to resign from your current role (or a hypothetical role), what would be your primary motivation for submitting an 'इस्तीफा'?
Write a short story where the climax involves a character giving their 'इस्तीफा'.
Consider the impact of a prominent 'इस्तीफा' on a company or government. How might it affect public perception?
What advice would you give to someone who is about to submit their 'इस्तीफा'?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'इस्तीफा' (istifa) is a noun referring to the formal act of resignation from a job or official position. It implies a deliberate, often documented, departure. 'छोड़ना' (chhodna) is a general verb meaning 'to leave' or 'to quit'. It can be used for leaving jobs, but it's less formal and can also mean leaving places, habits, or relationships. For example, you submit an 'इस्तीफा' to your employer, but you might casually say you 'छोड़ रहे हो' (are leaving) a party.
Yes, 'इस्तीफा' is inherently formal. It refers to the official act of relinquishing a job or position. While people might casually say they are 'quitting', the formal process is referred to using 'इस्तीफा'. The accompanying document is often called an 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter).
People use 'इस्तीफा' when discussing or performing the act of formally resigning from a job, a political office, or any official position. This includes news reports about leaders stepping down, employees submitting their notice, or discussions about career changes involving formal departures.
An 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (istifa patra) is a resignation letter. It is a written document that an employee submits to their employer to formally announce their intention to resign from their position. It typically includes the date of resignation and the last day of employment.
Yes, it is often possible to withdraw an 'इस्तीफा' (resignation), especially if it has not yet been formally accepted or if circumstances change. The phrase for this is 'इस्तीफा वापस लेना' (istifa vapas lena).
Common reasons for giving an 'इस्तीफा' include seeking better career opportunities, higher salary, personal reasons (like family needs or relocation), dissatisfaction with the work environment or management, or pursuing further education. Sometimes, it's due to ethical concerns or political pressure.
The word 'इस्तीफा' itself, referring to the act of resignation, is usually used in the singular. However, if you are talking about multiple instances of resignation, such as in a news report about many employees leaving, you might hear or see 'इस्तीफे' (istife), meaning 'resignations' (plural).
'इस्तीफा' is a general term for resignation, which can occur at any point in one's career. 'निवृत्ति' (nivṛtti) specifically means retirement, which is a type of resignation that usually happens at the end of a long career, often after reaching a certain age or completing a set number of service years.
You typically use 'इस्तीफा' as a noun. The most common phrase is 'इस्तीफा देना' (istifa dena), meaning 'to give resignation'. For example: 'मैंने अपना इस्तीफा दे दिया है।' (I have given my resignation.) You can also say: 'उनका इस्तीफा अप्रत्याशित था।' (His resignation was unexpected.)
While 'इस्तीफा' is the standard formal term, 'छोड़ना' (chhodna) is a more general verb for 'to quit' or 'to leave'. 'त्यागपत्र' (tyagpatra) refers specifically to the resignation letter. 'पदत्याग' (padyāg) is a very formal term for relinquishing a high post.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
इस्तीफा is the formal act of resigning from a job or official position. It's a noun that implies a deliberate and often documented departure from one's duties, distinct from casual quitting.
- इस्तीफा means formal resignation from a job or position.
- It's a noun used for the act of quitting officially.
- Commonly used in professional and political contexts.
- Often accompanied by an 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter).
Verb Collocations
Remember that 'इस्तीफा' is a noun. It is most commonly used with the verb 'देना' (dena) to form the phrase 'इस्तीफा देना' (to resign). You will also frequently encounter 'स्वीकार करना' (sweekar karna - to accept) and 'वापस लेना' (vapas lena - to withdraw) in relation to resignation.
Formal Register
'इस्तीफा' belongs to a formal register. Use it when discussing professional departures, official positions, or in news and formal writing. For casual quitting, use the verb 'छोड़ना' (chhodna).
Related Terms
To enrich your understanding, learn related terms like 'इस्तीफा पत्र' (resignation letter), 'पद' (post/position), and 'नौकरी' (job). Understanding these will help you use 'इस्तीफा' more effectively in context.
Sound Association
Try associating the sound of 'इस्तीफा' with English phrases like 'Is, Tiffa, I quit!' to help remember its meaning. The similar sounds can create a memorable link.
Related Content
More work words
आचार संहिता
B1A set of rules outlining the responsibilities of, or proper practices for, an individual or organization.
आगे बढ़ाना
A2To make progress; to promote or advance something.
आहरित करना
B1To withdraw money; to take money out of an account.
आहिस्ता-आहिस्ता
B1Slowly, gradually; at a slow pace; in a gentle or unhurried manner.
आजीविका
B1Livelihood; a means of securing the necessities of life.
आंकड़े इकट्ठा करना
B1To gather facts and statistics for analysis.
आलेख तैयार करना
B1To draft a document; to prepare a written piece.
आलस्य से
B1Lazily; in a way that shows a lack of effort or enthusiasm.
आमदनी
A2Income, earnings
आने वाला कल
B1On the day after today.
