Understanding Sick Leave In Business

First Business English know that sick leave is an important topic in any business environment. It refers to the time an employee takes off from work due to illness, injury, or a medical condition. In many companies, employees are entitled to paid or unpaid sick leave, depending on national laws or company policies. For Business English learners, understanding how to talk about sick leave clearly and professionally is essential. In this First Business English article we set out useful vocabulary and phrases used to talk about sick leave and an example paragraph to help you in situations where you might need to take some time off due to sickness.

Useful Vocabulary and Phrases

• Sick leave – time away from work because of illness
  “She is on sick leave this week.”

• Paid sick leave – when an employee continues to receive their salary while they are off work due to illness
  “The company provides 10 days of paid sick leave per year.”

• Unpaid sick leave – time off work without pay due to illness
  “If you take more than 10 days, the rest may be unpaid.”

• Doctor’s note / medical certificate – a written document from a doctor confirming that a person is unwell
  “You may need a doctor’s note if you’re off for more than two days.”

• Return to work – when the employee comes back after sick leave
  “She returned to work after a week off.”

• To call in sick – to inform your manager you are not coming to work because of illness
  “I called in sick this morning because I had a fever.”

• Short-term / long-term sick leave – time off for a few days or an extended period
  “He’s on long-term sick leave due to surgery.”

• Sick pay – money given to employees when they are ill and cannot work
  “Sick pay is usually part of the employee benefits package.”

Common Phrases in Use

• “I won’t be in today. I’m not feeling well.”

• “I’m going to the doctor and will send a medical certificate.”

• “Our policy allows up to 5 days of sick leave without documentation.”

• “We wish you a speedy recovery.”

• “Please take care and rest. Your health comes first.”

• “Can you inform HR that you’ll be away?”

• “We will arrange cover for your responsibilities while you’re off.”

Understanding Company Policy

Companies often have different rules around sick leave. It is important to know your company’s policy:

• Do you need a doctor’s note?

• Is the leave paid or unpaid?

• Who should you inform and how?

• Is there a form to complete upon returning?

Reading the employee handbook or asking your manager or Human Resources (HR) department is a good way to stay informed.

Example Paragraph

Last week, I had to take sick leave because I caught the flu. I felt terrible, so I called in sick and emailed my manager. Our company allows three days of paid sick leave without a doctor’s note, so I stayed home and rested. On the fourth day, I still wasn’t feeling better, so I went to the doctor and sent a medical certificate to HR. I returned to work on Monday and had a short meeting with my manager to catch up. She was very understanding and told me to take things slowly.

Conclusion

Sick leave is a necessary part of working life. Knowing the correct vocabulary and professional phrases helps you communicate effectively with your employer. As a Business English learner, being able to describe your situation clearly and politely shows professionalism and respect in the workplace. To learn more of to practice your business English language skills simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.