Compassionate leave is a type of leave granted to employees when they need time off due to serious personal circumstances, such as the illness or death of a family member. This leave allows individuals to manage their emotional and practical needs during difficult times without the stress of work obligations. Typically, compassionate leave policies vary by employer and may include paid or unpaid time off. Employees should check their company's human resources guidelines to understand the specific terms, duration, and eligibility requirements for taking compassionate leave.