Workplace
Out of office
An automatic reply indicating absence.
Plain English
Away and not working, and your message should name who to contact instead.
If you’re new here
Always name a backup. An away message without one just delays everything by the length of your leave.
What they probably mean
“I'm away. Ask someone else.”
Interpretation offered as humour, not authoritative guidance.
Bureaucracy level
Very simple · 1/5
How much government-speak this phrase carries. Playful indicator, not a judgement of anyone using it.
Related terms
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Important
GC Simplified is an independent tool, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, and it does not provide official advice. Plain language is an interpretation, and interpretations can be wrong. Always verify against the source and your organization’s own guidance before acting.