declaring defeat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "declaring defeat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone acknowledges that they have lost or failed in a particular situation or competition. Example: "After several attempts to win the championship, the team is finally declaring defeat and will regroup for next season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

That would look too much like declaring defeat and going cap in hand to America's regional enemies, Iran and Syria, to sue for peace.

The Economist

Their attack, some said, was also a fundamental assault on American values, and to respond by constricting constitutional rights would be equivalent to declaring defeat.

The New York Times

Business leaders who once described themselves as hopeful that California would pass major changes to the law are now declaring defeat, abandoning Mr. Steinberg and urging lawmakers to vote against his bill.

The New York Times

"We're not declaring defeat yet".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"This is no time to declare defeat.

The New York Times

Weyrich declared defeat: Cultural Marxism is succeeding in its war against our culture.

The New York Times

T.C.I. declared defeat and sold its position, taking its directors off the board.

The New York Times

"I'm not willing to declare defeat in any industry," he said.

The New York Times

In the face of such ambiguities, the temptation is to declare defeat and withdraw from the world's violent corners.

The New York Times - Magazine

If we are unwilling to commit American troops to this battle, we should declare defeat and go home.

The New York Times

On Monday night, Schlessinger declared defeat, announcing on Larry King's CNN show that she would not be doing any more radio shows.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "declaring defeat" when you want to emphasize the act of publicly announcing or acknowledging a loss, especially in situations involving competition, conflict, or prolonged effort.

Common error

Avoid using "declaring defeat" when the situation allows for a potential comeback or change of strategy. Make sure that you are not confusing a setback with a final resolution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "declaring defeat" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of formally or publicly acknowledging a loss or failure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It's commonly used to describe the end of a competition, conflict, or endeavor.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "declaring defeat" is a verbal phrase used to formally acknowledge loss or failure, predominantly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI validates its correct grammatical structure and appropriate use. Related phrases include "conceding defeat" and "admitting failure". When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the finality of the situation and avoid using it when the outcome is still uncertain. It's a phrase best suited for communicating acceptance of loss, signaling the conclusion of a struggle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conceding defeat

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of conceding.

admitting failure

Highlights the admission of not succeeding.

acknowledging defeat

Stresses recognizing the loss.

accepting defeat

Highlights the acceptance of the outcome.

surrendering

Focuses on giving up the struggle.

succumbing to defeat

Highlights the act of being overcome by defeat.

waiving the white flag

Figurative language for surrendering.

throwing in the towel

Idiomatic expression for giving up.

relinquishing the fight

Focuses on ceasing the struggle or battle.

giving up

General term for ceasing effort.

FAQs

What does "declaring defeat" mean?

It means to publicly announce or acknowledge that you have lost or failed in a contest, competition, or endeavor.

What can I say instead of "declaring defeat"?

You can use alternatives like "conceding defeat", "admitting failure", or "acknowledging defeat" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "declaring defeat"?

It's appropriate when someone formally or publicly acknowledges they have lost or failed in something, often after a significant effort or struggle.

Is "declaring defeat" the same as "giving up"?

While similar, "declaring defeat" implies a formal acknowledgement of loss, whereas "giving up" may simply mean ceasing effort without a formal announcement. You can also "throw in the towel".