辞呈 (cí chéng) literally combines 辞 (cí), meaning 'to resign' or 'to take leave', and 呈 (chéng), meaning 'to submit' or 'to present'—so the term conveys the idea of formally submitting one’s resignation. It is a formal, written document used in professional settings to officially notify an employer of one’s intention to leave a job. Unlike casual expressions like ‘I’m quitting’, 辞呈 carries institutional weight and is typically required by company policy or labor regulations in China and other Chinese-speaking regions.

This noun is commonly used in office, government, or academic contexts. While digital submissions are increasingly accepted, many organizations still expect a printed, signed 辞呈. It is usually addressed to a supervisor or HR department and may include a resignation date, brief reason for leaving, and expressions of gratitude. The tone is respectful and concise, reflecting Chinese workplace norms of formality and face-saving.