What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
firing
Example
The company is firing several employees due to budget cuts. [firing: verb]
Example
He was caught firing his gun in the park and was arrested. [firing: gerund or present participle]
termination
Example
The company announced the termination of several employees due to budget cuts. [termination: noun]
Example
She faced termination from her job due to repeated absences. [termination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Termination is more commonly used than firing in professional and formal contexts. Firing is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as conversations with friends or family.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between firing and termination?
Termination is more formal and professional than firing. It is commonly used in legal documents, contracts, and human resources discussions. Firing is less formal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or in media headlines.