Layoff vs. Lay Off
“Layoff” is the standard closed noun in Cambridge, with “lay-off” also documented as a noun variant. “Lay off” is the two-word phrasal verb, including the employment sense.
Use “layoff” for the noun; Cambridge also records the noun variant “lay-off.” Use “lay off” as the verb, especially for ending someone’s employment because work is unavailable.
Key details
Choose the right form
| If you mean / need | Use | Why |
|---|---|---|
| an employment termination event or period away from work | layoff / lay-off | Cambridge documents both noun spellings. |
| the action of stopping employing someone | lay off | The phrasal verb is written as two words. |
Further guidance
Core difference
Use the documented noun or modifier form when naming a thing, result, person, or concept; use the spaced form when the words function as a verb.
Fast Test
If the expression can take ordinary verb tense or inflection in the sentence, the spaced verb form is usually the relevant choice.
Variant Boundary
Cambridge documents both “layoff” and the noun variant “lay-off,” while the phrasal verb remains “lay off.”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- LAYOFF — English meaning (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Noun “layoff”, with documented “lay-off” variant
- LAY SOMEONE OFF — English meaning (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Two-word phrasal verb “lay off”