throw in the towel

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Definition

Verb phrase: - To give up or admit defeat: To stop trying to do something because you know you cannot succeed or win. This phrase often implies surrendering or quitting after a struggle, especially in a competition or difficult situation.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe the act of quitting or conceding defeat. It originates from boxing, where a trainer literally throws a towel into the ring to signal that their fighter is giving up and the fight should be stopped. It is commonly used in both literal competitive contexts and figurative situations involving challenges.

Examples
  • After trying to fix the old computer for three hours, he finally threw in the towel and bought a new one.
  • The team refused to throw in the towel even when they were losing by 20 points.
  • She decided to throw in the towel on her business venture after two unprofitable years.
Advanced Usage
  • "to throw in the sponge": This is a less common, older variant with the same meaning, also originating from boxing.
    • After a series of failed experiments, the researcher was ready to throw in the sponge.
Variants and Related Words
  • Concede (verb): To admit, often reluctantly, that something is true or that you have been defeated.
    • The candidate conceded the election after the final results were announced.
  • Surrender (verb): To stop resisting an opponent or an unwelcome demand; to yield.
    • The soldiers were forced to surrender.
Synonyms
  • Give up
  • Quit
  • Admit defeat
  • Capitulate
  • Wave the white flag
Related Idioms
  • "Wave the white flag": To show that you want to stop fighting or arguing because you have been defeated.
    • After a long debate, he waved the white flag and agreed with her proposal.
  • "Call it a day": To decide to stop working on something for the time being.
    • We've been working on this puzzle for hours; let's call it a day. (Note: This implies stopping an activity, not necessarily admitting defeat.)
Verb
  1. give up in the face of defeat of lacking hope; admit defeat
    • In the second round, the challenger gave up

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