quiet vacationing

/ˌkwaɪət veɪˈkeɪʃənɪŋ/
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Taking unofficial time away from work while giving the impression of still being on the job.

Examples

  • Calling it quiet vacationing makes the break sound playful, although being discovered could lead to discipline.
  • He was not on approved leave, so his manager viewed the trip as quiet vacationing.
  • She tried quiet vacationing from the coast by scheduling emails before she left.
  • Their company discussed quiet vacationing after several workers said they felt guilty requesting time off.
  • Is answering one message a day enough to hide quiet vacationing?

Similar words

hush trip
unofficial time off
secret vacation

Meanings

Taking hidden time off work

work
informal
The practice of taking a break or going on a trip without formally requesting leave, while appearing available or doing just enough work to avoid notice. The phrase often suggests secrecy caused by pressure not to use paid time off, but it can also imply dishonesty and a risk of workplace consequences.

Examples

  • She tried quiet vacationing from the coast by scheduling emails before she left.
  • Is answering one message a day enough to hide quiet vacationing?
  • He was not on approved leave, so his manager viewed the trip as quiet vacationing.
  • Their company discussed quiet vacationing after several workers said they felt guilty requesting time off.
  • Calling it quiet vacationing makes the break sound playful, although being discovered could lead to discipline.
  • Remote work can make quiet vacationing easier, but a real holiday requires fully disconnecting.

Similar words

Etymology

Built from quiet, meaning done without drawing attention, and vacationing. The Harris Poll used the phrase in 2024 for taking time off without telling a manager, as part of a wider group of workplace expressions beginning with quiet.

FAQ

What does quiet vacationing mean?

Quiet vacationing means taking unofficial time away from work without telling a manager, while trying to appear available or productive.

Is quiet vacationing the same as working remotely while traveling?

Not always. Approved work from another location is ordinary remote work. Quiet vacationing involves hiding the break, trip, or reduced work from an employer.

Is quiet vacationing the same as paid time off?

No. Paid time off is formally requested or recorded, while quiet vacationing avoids the normal leave process.

Why do people practice quiet vacationing?

Reported reasons include feeling guilty about leave, fearing career harm, saving limited paid days, and wanting relief from burnout.

Where did the phrase quiet vacationing come from?

The Harris Poll used quiet vacationing in 2024 for hidden time off, combining quiet with vacationing in the style of workplace phrases such as quiet quitting.

Can quiet vacationing cause problems at work?

Yes. Hidden absence can disrupt colleagues, break location or security rules, and lead to discipline if it is discovered.

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