Noun
/ˈliːvˌteɪ.kɪŋ/
The term "leave-taking" refers to the act of saying goodbye when parting from someone or something. It implies a farewell rather than a simple departure and often carries an emotional weight. The word is less common in everyday conversation and may appear more frequently in literary, formal, or written contexts than in casual speech.
Frequency of Use: Moderate, appears predominantly in written contexts.
Oral vs. Written Context: More often used in written form.
Example Sentences:
1. The leave-taking was bittersweet, filled with nostalgia and hope for the future.
El dejar fue agridulce, lleno de nostalgia y esperanza para el futuro.
Many cultures have specific rituals or customs associated with leave-taking.
Muchas culturas tienen rituales o costumbres específicas asociadas con la despedida.
After a long leave-taking, they finally felt ready to part ways.
Después de una larga despedida, finalmente se sintieron listos para separarse.
"Leave-taking" is not commonly used in many idiomatic expressions; however, the concepts of farewell and parting do appear frequently in various phrases and sayings. Here are some relevant expressions:
"Parting is such sweet sorrow."
La despedida es una dulce pena.
This phrase captures the bittersweet feeling associated with (often emotional) goodbyes.
"To bid farewell."
Despedirse.
A formal way of indicating that someone is leaving or saying goodbye.
"Leave no stone unturned."
No dejar ninguna piedra sin mover.
While not about leave-taking specifically, it emphasizes thoroughness, often used in contexts where one prepares a detailed farewell.
"To make one's way."
Hacer su camino.
This expression can imply setting off on a new path or adventure, often following a leave-taking.
"Leave-taking" is derived from the combination of "leave," originating from Old English "læfan," meaning to allow or to leave behind, and "taking," which comes from the Old English "tacan," meaning to grasp or take. The compound suggests the act of taking one's leave, emphasizing the action of saying goodbye.
Synonyms: farewell, departure, goodbye, parting
Antonyms: greeting, welcome, reunion, arrival