Resign and Quit: How Do They Differ?

In our daily lives, we hear the words resign and quite in different contexts. However, many of us often tend not to understand how different they are and mix them up unknowingly.

Our article will put these two words into a resign vs. quit scenario. By pitting them directly against each other, you will get a clearer understanding of their differences and contrasts.

We will start by defining both words to identify the core differences in their meanings easily.

Then, we will view them from different angles and aspects to understand where they are more applicable. The contextual settings will help you further separate the two words more extensively.

What Does Resign Mean?

Resign essentially means voluntarily leaving a job or office. When a person chooses to leave his current place of work for better opportunities or personal gain, this word is more appropriate.

This word is typically considered to set a mild tone. Understanding between both parties is also signified to it in majority cases.

The word resign also happens to be considered quite formal in terms of employment. In many organizations, it’s regarded as an entire process that ensures the smooth departure of their employee.

The steps include providing due notice and an exit interview with the individual, not burning any bridges with the company.

What Does Quit Mean?

Quit essentially means to give up on something, someone, or a place. It is a much more intense word that is often said in animosity. It also signifies permanence in a lot of ways.

A typical case for using the word quit is typically to leave someplace. Unlike other options, this word typically means no chances or retribution.

On the other hand, quit is considered to be a more informal term. Therefore, it has a higher level of applicability.

From learning a skill to leaving a communion, you can use this word extensively. Although the term has Latin origins, its meaning has warped and changed and now has multiple meanings.

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Comparison Table Between Resign and Quit

Below is a comparison table to have a more idea about the difference between resigning and quitting.

Factors for Comparison	Resign	Quit
Definition	Resign is the formal procedure of leaving a job that involves multiple steps and formalities.	According to context, to quit is to give up on any form of endeavor that may or may not involve prior thought.
Game	Resign works as a formal term in the game of chess. When a player accepts defeat despite not being checkmated, then it is called resign.	Quit can be used for any and all games, and the context is the same for each of them. It is applicable if anyone stops the pursuit of mastering said game.
Official Proceedings	Resign is also applicable for any worker who chooses not to accept any privilege of perks of the profession or business involved.	Quit is considered a rude and offensive term in professions. It is assumed that a person quitting a job has provided no previous notifications to his employers and has severed ties with them.
Source Meaning	Initially, the meaning of resigning was to follow someone’s mentorship completely. When a person casts aside his own ideals and walks on the path laid down by a guide, that was called resigning.	According to its Latin origins, to quit means to act in a specific way. Usually, it was tied to gender roles or particular aspects of a person’s holistic life. Unlike resign, this meaning has become heavily outdated.
Future Endeavors	Resigning can be fruitful for a person’s future job prospects. Furthermore, it will also help maintain a good relationship with previous employers.	Quitting can lead to risky scenarios in future job prospects. Other than ruining relationships, it also develops a bad impression of the individual in the job market.