give up

USAGE SUMMARY

"give up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean to cease trying or to abandon or relinquish something. For example, "After months of trying to find a job, he finally decided to give up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Give up?

The New York Times - Sports

They give up".

The New York Times

Many simply give up.

The New York Times

"I can't give up.

The New York Times - Food

You wouldn't give up.

The New York Times

Give up drinking.

Independent

"I give up".

The New York Times

"Would Gandhi give up?

The Guardian

Don't give up Japan!

Independent

Give up the pies?

Independent

"I give up, cop!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give up", consider the context carefully to ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning: whether it's ceasing an effort, surrendering, or relinquishing something. Use synonyms like "throw in the towel" or "admit defeat" for stylistic variation.

Common error

Avoid using "give up" reflexively when it's unnecessary. For example, instead of saying "He gave himself up on the project", simply say "He gave up on the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give up" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. According to Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, indicating an action of ceasing or relinquishing. This usage aligns with examples that demonstrate the act of stopping an activity or surrendering.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "give up" is a versatile and commonly used phrasal verb that signifies ceasing an effort, surrendering, or relinquishing something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability, as evidenced by numerous examples across various sources. Its neutral register allows for use in both formal and informal contexts, with a high frequency in news media. To enhance writing, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and explore related phrases like "throw in the towel" or "admit defeat" for stylistic variation. Remember to avoid unnecessary reflexive constructions and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

throw in the towel

An idiom meaning to admit defeat, differing by being more informal and figurative.

surrender

Indicates yielding or ceasing resistance, differing by implying a more formal or forceful concession.

admit defeat

Implies acknowledging failure, differing by emphasizing the acceptance of being beaten.

quit

Refers to ceasing an activity or endeavor, differing by being more informal and direct.

cease trying

Directly indicates the stopping of effort, differing by being more explicit about the action of trying.

abandon

Suggests leaving behind or ceasing to support something, differing by implying a more complete and permanent cessation.

relinquish

Involves letting go of something, often a right or possession, differing by implying a more formal and intentional act.

forgo

Suggests abstaining from or giving up something desirable, differing by often referring to a specific opportunity or pleasure.

capitulate

Means to surrender under agreed terms, differing by suggesting a more formal and negotiated surrender.

resign oneself to

Indicates accepting something unpleasant that one cannot do anything about, differing by implying a reluctant acceptance.

FAQs

What does "give up" mean?

"Give up" means to stop trying to do something, often because it is too difficult. It can also mean to surrender or relinquish something.

How can I use "give up" in a sentence?

You can use "give up" in sentences like, "I will never "give up" on my dreams" or "They had to "give up" the search due to the storm".

What are some alternatives to "give up"?

Alternatives to "give up" include "quit", "surrender", "abandon", or "relinquish". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "give up" versus "abandon"?

"Give up" generally implies ceasing an effort, while "abandon" suggests leaving something behind permanently. For example, you might "give up" a hobby, but "abandon" a sinking ship.