call it quits

USAGE SUMMARY

"call it quits" is a correct and widely used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to mean give up or end something, and is often used in situations where two people disagree or are at an impasse. For example, "The two were unable to come to an agreement, so they decided to call it quits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It was time to call it quits.

The Guardian - Music

The very same day, Snowe decides to call it quits.

The New York Times

Pretty soon, you're ready to call it quits.

The New York Times - Tech

The latest to call it quits is a Biennial curator.

The New York Times - Arts

You can call it quits if your lover mistreats you.

The New York Times - Health

Some will call it quits short of their usual terminus.

The New York Times

Why exactly did you decide to call it quits?

The New York Times - Arts

But in January, they decided to call it quits.

The New York Times

I was to feel free to call it quits anytime, anywhere.

The New Yorker

The Guardian's Charles Arthur explains why LulzSec had no choice but to call it quits.

The New Yorker

A few more might call it quits before the Iowa caucuses, on February 1st.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Reserve this phrase for situations where there has been a significant period of effort or duration beforehand.

Common error

Avoid using "call it quits" when you only intend to stop working for the evening or taking a break. In those instances, use "call it a day" instead. "call it quits" implies a permanent termination or abandonment of the activity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call it quits" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase typically used as the predicate of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it is categorized as a verb meaning to conclude or stop an activity after a significant period of time. It acts as a fixed expression where the word 'quits' functions as a predicative adjective meaning 'even' or 'clear'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki & General Advice

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science & Research

1.5%

Academic Literature

0.4%

Legal & Technical

0.1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "call it quits" is a highly versatile and correct idiomatic expression used to describe the final cessation of an activity. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in reputable journalism and literature. It is most frequently applied to career retirements, relationship breakups, and the conclusion of challenging tasks. Writers should distinguish it from "call it a day", which is less permanent. The phrase is remarkably consistent in its plural form and provides a clear, punchy way to describe the end of an era or effort across both neutral and informal registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

call it a day

Often used for stopping a task temporarily or finishing a work shift rather than quitting permanently.

throw in the towel

Uses a sports-based metaphor to imply giving up due to defeat or exhaustion.

bow out

Suggests a more graceful or dignified withdrawal from a situation or role.

walk away

Emphasizes the act of leaving a relationship, negotiation, or commitment entirely.

give up

A more general and less idiomatic way to describe stopping an effort.

hang up one's boots

Specifically refers to retirement, particularly in sports or physical careers.

pack it in

A more informal, often British, expression for stopping an activity.

resign

The formal and professional equivalent used specifically for employment.

abandon ship

A more dramatic metaphor used when a situation is failing or becoming too difficult.

discontinue

A formal, procedural term used for stopping a service or process.

FAQs

What is the difference between "call it quits" and "call it a day"?

While both mean to stop an activity, "call it a day" usually means stopping for the time being with the intent to resume later. "call it quits" suggests a permanent end or giving up entirely.

Is it correct to say "call it quit"?

No, the standard idiomatic form is always plural. You should always use the phrase as "call it quits" to remain grammatically correct.

Can I use "call it quits" in a professional email?

It is acceptable in neutral professional settings, but for highly formal communication, consider using "resign" or "discontinue".

How do you use "call it quits" regarding a relationship?

In relationships, it means to break up or divorce. For example, 'The couple decided to "call it quits" after ten years of marriage'.