Presenteeism

Meaning

The practice of being physically present at work but functioning at reduced productivity due to illness, pain, or other health conditions

Origin / Etymology

English present + -eeism; coined in the 1990s as a counterpart to absenteeism

Synonyms

Unproductive attendance

Antonyms

Absenteeism

Example Sentence

"Presenteeism costs Indian employers more than absenteeism, as women working through severe dysmenorrhea are present but unable to perform at full capacity."

🎯 UPSC Usage

Use in GS-2 answers on workplace policy, gender equity, and labour reforms. Powerful concept to argue that menstrual leave may actually improve net productivity.

Relevant Subjects