When you’re feeling unwell and unable to attend work or school, it’s important to inform your employer or teacher in a professional and respectful manner. Knowing how to effectively communicate that you need to call in sick can help maintain good relationships and show your commitment to your responsibilities. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways of saying “call in sick,” providing you with tips, examples, and possible variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Call in Sick”
Formal situations often require a more professional tone. Here are some formal phrases you can use when informing your employer or teacher that you are unable to attend:
- Subject: Absence Notification
Dear [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name],
I regret to inform you that I am unwell and will be unable to attend work/school today. I have seen a doctor and they have advised me to rest and recover. I apologize for any inconvenience caused and will provide any necessary documentation upon my return.
Subject: Sick Leave Request
Dear [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to let you know that I am feeling sick and will not be able to come to work/school today. I will promptly complete any pending tasks or assignments and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities during my absence. Please let me know if there is anything specific you require during my absence.
Subject: Request for Sick Day
Dear [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I am feeling unwell and unable to attend work/school today. I will be visiting a healthcare professional to address my condition and follow their recommended treatment plan. If there are any urgent matters that require my attention, please let me know and I will do my best to provide assistance remotely.
Informal Ways to Say “Call in Sick”
When informing friends, colleagues, or classmates in a more informal setting, you can use more relaxed language. Here are a few examples:
- Subject: Feeling Under the Weather
Hey [Colleague/Friend’s Name],
I’m feeling really sick today and won’t be able to make it to work/school. I’ll make sure to catch up on any missed tasks once I’m back. Let me know if there’s anything urgent you need me to take care of from home.
Subject: Can’t Make It Today
Hey [Colleague/Friend’s Name],
I just wanted to give you a heads-up that I’m feeling quite unwell and won’t be able to come into work/school today. I’ll make sure to inform [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name] as well. If there’s anything interesting happening, fill me in later!
Subject: Sick Leave
Hey [Colleague/Friend’s Name],
Sorry to say, but I’m feeling really sick today and won’t be able to make it. I’ll let [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name] know as well. If there’s anything important, drop me a message and I’ll try to respond between naps!
Tips for Communicating Your Absence
Regardless of whether your message is formal or informal, keep the following tips in mind:
- Be prompt: Inform your employer or teacher as soon as you know you won’t be able to attend.
- Provide a reason: Simply stating that you are sick is generally enough information. However, if your absence requires additional context (such as a doctor’s appointment), include it.
- Offer assistance: If possible, offer to complete any urgent tasks remotely or delegate them to a colleague.
- Mention follow-up: Let your employer or teacher know that you will make up for any missed work or provide necessary documentation upon your return.
Examples of “Call in Sick” Messages
Now, let’s take a look at a few examples combining the phrases above:
- Formal example:
Dear [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name],
I regret to inform you that I am unwell and will be unable to attend work/school today. I have seen a doctor and they have advised me to rest and recover. I apologize for any inconvenience caused and will provide any necessary documentation upon my return.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Informal example:
Hey [Colleague/Friend’s Name],
Just wanted to give you a heads-up that I’m feeling quite unwell and won’t be able to come into work/school today. I’ll make sure to inform [Supervisor/Teacher’s Name] as well. If there’s anything interesting happening, fill me in later!
Take care, [Your Name]
Remember to adjust these examples according to your specific circumstances and relationships. Being sincere, polite, and considerate in your message will go a long way.
