Gross misconduct

Formal Neutral

What it really means

Serious wrongdoing at work — such as theft, violence or a major safety breach — that can lead to instant dismissal without notice. It's a high bar, and the employer still has to follow a fair process.

Chinese explanation

严重不当行为（gross misconduct）：工作中的严重过错——如盗窃、暴力或重大安全违规——可导致无通知即时解雇。认定门槛很高，雇主仍须遵循公平程序。

Example conversation

A: Can they really sack someone on the spot? B: Only for gross misconduct, and they still have to investigate fairly.

A：他们真能当场开除人吗？ B：只有严重不当行为才行，而且仍须公正调查。

What you could say back

“What counts as gross misconduct here?”

Related phrases

Disciplinary ACAS Contract of employment

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake