gave in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean that someone stopped arguing or doing something, usually because they had been unsuccessful in resisting. For example: Even though he argued with his boss for a long time, eventually he gave in and accepted the new terms of his contract.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

"I gave in," he said.

The New York Times

Nixon refused, but Ford gave in anyway.

The New Yorker

Prison officials gave in earlier than that.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Eventually she gave in," Ms. Spannbauer said.

The New York Times

It basically gave in".

The Guardian - Music

"He never gave in".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

They never give in".

The New York Times

We didn't give in".

Independent

"They won't give in".

The New York Times

"They refused to give in".

The New York Times - Sports

He doesn't give in".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gave in" to describe a situation where someone stops resisting or arguing, often because they realize they cannot win or because they are tired of fighting. It is effective in conveying a sense of resignation or acceptance.

Common error

Ensure you use the correct past tense form, "gave in", instead of the past participle "given" when describing the act of yielding. For example, "He finally gave in" is correct, while "He finally given in" is grammatically incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gave in" is as a phrasal verb, acting as the main verb in a sentence to describe the action of ceasing resistance or yielding. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gave in" is a phrasal verb used to describe the act of ceasing resistance or yielding to pressure. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and widely used in written English. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, maintaining a neutral register. When using "gave in", ensure you're conveying the idea of someone stopping resistance. Consider alternatives like "yielded" or "surrendered" to fine-tune your meaning. Avoid confusing it with the past participle "given".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yielded

Implies a formal or reluctant surrender after pressure.

capitulated

Suggests a complete and unconditional surrender, often in a formal setting.

surrendered

Indicates a formal act of giving oneself up to an opponent or opposing force.

succumbed

Implies a failure to resist pressure, temptation, or some other negative force.

relented

Suggests a softening of attitude or a giving way to compassion after initially refusing.

acquiesced

Indicates a passive acceptance or compliance without protest.

complied

Implies obedience or adherence to a request or command.

caved

Suggests giving in to pressure or demands, often with negative connotations.

submitted

Implies a yielding to authority or control.

bowed down

Indicates a surrender of power or will, often in a metaphorical sense.

FAQs

What does "gave in" mean?

"Gave in" means to stop resisting or arguing; to yield or surrender.

How can I use "gave in" in a sentence?

You can use "gave in" in a sentence like: "After hours of negotiation, the company finally "yielded" and "gave in" to the union's demands".

What are some alternatives to "gave in"?

Alternatives include "yielded", "capitulated", or "surrendered", depending on the context.

Is "gave in" formal or informal?

"Gave in" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.