General
rif
What does rif mean?
An acronym for 'reduction in force,' a permanent elimination of positions for business reasons. To be 'riffed' is to be laid off as part of such a cut, rather than fired for performance.
"Two whole departments got riffed in the Q4 RIF."
Origin
US government and corporate HR jargon; the verb 'riffed' derives from the acronym.
Frequently asked questions
What does RIF stand for?
Reduction in force, a corporate term for permanently eliminating positions for business reasons rather than firing people for performance.
What does it mean to be riffed?
To be laid off as part of a reduction in force, not fired for cause.
Is RIF the same as being fired?
No, a RIF is a business-driven layoff, whereas being fired usually implies termination for performance or conduct.
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