opgestapt

Opgestapt is the past participle of the Dutch verb opstappen, meaning to step down from a position or to resign. It is used to describe someone who has left their job or office, typically in political, corporate, or public life contexts. In English, opgestapt is usually rendered as "has stepped down" or "has resigned."

Etymology and usage: The word is formed from the prefix op- combined with stappen (to step). As an adjective or part of a verb phrase, opgestapt indicates that a person has completed the act of leaving their role and is no longer in that position. It is commonly found in news reporting and biographical notes. For example, a sentence like "De minister is opgestapt" means that the minister has resigned. The term generally connotes voluntary departure, though it can follow political pressure or a negotiated transition.

Context and nuance: Opgestapt is often used for leadership changes in government, business, or public organizations. It is somewhat less formal than aftreden, which also means to step down or retire but can carry a broader or more ceremonial sense. Opgestapt emphasizes the action of leaving a role rather than the length of service or the terms of departure. In Dutch media, it is a standard descriptor for recent or notable resignations.

See also: Resignation, Aftreden, Ontslagen, Dutch terminology for leaving a position.