Pronunciation: [ɹɪtˈa͡ɪ͡əz ˈɜːlɪ] (IPA) 
The phrase "retires early" is spelled as /rɪˈtaɪərz ˈɜrli/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ri" with a short "i" sound, followed by stress on the second syllable, "tires", which rhymes with "fires". The final syllable, "early", is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, sounding like "urly" with a short "e" sound. This phrase means to stop working before the typical age or time period allotted for retirement.
"Retires early" refers to the act of voluntarily leaving one's job or profession before reaching the traditional retirement age, typically in the mid to late 60s. This decision is driven by an individual's desire to enjoy an extended period of post-employment leisure, pursue personal interests, or embark on a new career. Unlike standard retirement, where people cease working after completing a specific number of years in service or reaching a certain age, early retirement allows individuals to transition away from their primary occupation earlier than expected.
Early retirement can be achieved through various means, such as building a substantial nest egg, personal investments, or carefully planning for financial independence, to ensure financial security during the remainder of one's life. This decision requires individuals to assess and weigh factors like potential risks, investments, anticipated expenses, and savings against their needs and desires during the retirement years.
Retiring early offers individuals the freedom to engage in activities that may have been challenging to pursue while dedicated to full-time work. Some common pursuits during early retirement include travel, hobbies, volunteer work, spending quality time with family, or exploring new interests. It provides an opportunity for self-fulfillment, personal growth, and a chance to experience a more relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.
However, retiring early also comes with potential challenges, such as managing finances, healthcare, and social connections. Therefore, careful planning and consideration of long-term implications are necessary to ensure a successful and satisfying early retirement experience.
The phrase "retires early" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words.
1. "Retires" comes from the word "retire", which dates back to the mid-16th century. It derived from the Middle French word "retirer", meaning "to withdraw" or "to retreat". Over time, the term evolved in usage to refer to the act of leaving one's job or profession permanently and leading a life of relaxation or pursuing other interests.
2. "Early" comes from the Old English word "earlic", which means "before" or "in advance". It has been used over the centuries to denote something happening before the expected or standard time.
Together, the phrase "retires early" refers to the act of leaving one's work or occupation before the expected or usual age of retirement.
