The spelling of "rejection slip" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The transcription is /rɪˈdʒɛkʃən slɪp/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a "j" sound and a "ɛ" sound. The second syllable has a "k" sound and then a "ʃ" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and a "p" sound. Overall, the word has a sharp and crisp sound that matches its meaning of a formal rejection notice.
A rejection slip is a formal notification sent from a publisher, agent, or organization to an author or submitter, conveying the rejection of their submitted work. It is an indirect means of declining a piece of writing, be it a manuscript, short story, essay, or poem, that does not meet the criteria or standards set by the recipient. Rejection slips may also be referred to as rejection letters, rejection emails, or rejection notices.
Typically, a rejection slip includes basic information like the sender's name, the date of the rejection, and a salutation addressing the submitter. It briefly expresses the decision to decline the submitted work, often accompanied by a generic explanation or reason for the rejection. These reasons can range from a lack of originality, unsuitability for the intended readership, or discrepancies in plot, character development, or writing style.
Rejection slips can vary in tone, ranging from formal and impersonal to slightly more personal and encouraging. Some may offer constructive feedback or suggest revisions, while others may simply state that the submission does not align with the publisher's current needs or interests. Despite the negative connotation associated with rejection slips, they play an essential role in the process of seeking publication, helping authors refine their work and find a better fit for their writing within the industry.
The etymology of the word "rejection slip" can be traced back to the late 19th century.
The term "rejection" originates from the verb "reject", which came into English from the Latin word "reicere", meaning "to throw back" or "to refuse". It entered the English language in the 15th century.
The word "slip" in this context refers to a small piece of paper, typically used for writing a brief message or note. It is derived from the Old English word "slyppe", meaning "slip of parchment" or "slip of paper".
When these two terms are combined, "rejection slip" refers to a small piece of paper or note used to communicate the rejection of a manuscript, submission, application, or any other request.