we can surrender

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can surrender" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where individuals or groups are discussing the option of giving up or yielding in a situation. Example: "After much deliberation, we can surrender to the inevitable and accept the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In the middle of nowhere, though, we can surrender to smallness again and instead find where we fit in the landscape.

The New York Times - Travel

My hope is that they have also learned that when faced with the thing we fear most, we can surrender, or we can move forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can surrender to our challenges and, in doing so, to life itself.

Huffington Post

And I pray for America--for her leaders and her citizens that we can surrender blame in exchange for taking more responsibility, in our collective pursuit of happiness.

Huffington Post

We can surrender a become a victim of fear, and let it destroy more life, or, we can stand steady on the ground of living in ways that protect, nourish and raise up and bless new life upon this earth.

Huffington Post

We as conservatives have two options: we can surrender and vote for the GOP nominee, buying into the hype against the Democratic candidate with transparency and honesty issues (but does Donald really not have those same issues?), or we can fight back.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Ideally, we'd maintain a manageable shelter population by limiting the reasons why someone can surrender a pet.

Huffington Post

But if you can surrender, it is a true escape.

The New York Times - Travel

"Today, the world's dictators can surrender any hope of keeping their worst deeds secret," Mr. Dobson observes.

The New York Times - Books

"No government of India can surrender a single inch of Kashmir," said Muhammad Shaffi Qureshi, the leader of the Congress Party here.

The New York Times

In theory, these domain names can't be hijacked by criminals or blocked by governments; no one except the owner can surrender them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can surrender" when you want to express the possibility or option of yielding to a situation or opponent, rather than forcing a confrontation or resistance. This conveys a sense of realism or acceptance.

Common error

Be mindful of the context when using "we can surrender"; ensure it doesn't unintentionally project a sense of defeatism or lack of resolve. Choose stronger alternatives if the intent is to demonstrate resilience or strategic retreat.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can surrender" functions as a statement of possibility or option, where 'we' represents a group, 'can' indicates ability or permission, and 'surrender' denotes yielding or giving up. Ludwig confirms its validity as a common expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can surrender" is a grammatically sound expression used to indicate a possible course of action involving yielding or giving up. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and acceptability. While its frequency is uncommon, the phrase appears across various contexts, notably in news and media. The choice of using "we can surrender" should be carefully considered, as it may project different connotations depending on the surrounding text, and there are alternative phrases that may better suit the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we could give in

Implies reluctantly agreeing or yielding.

we are able to yield

Emphasizes conceding or giving way.

we're able to back down

Refers to retreating from a position or stance.

we are able to give up

Focuses on the ability to relinquish something.

we have the option to concede

Highlights the availability of the choice to surrender.

we may relinquish

Highlights the act of formally giving something up.

we might submit

Emphasizes accepting someone else's authority or control.

we might capitulate

Suggests a more formal or decisive act of surrender.

we have the ability to cede

Emphasizes formally handing over control or territory.

we can succumb

Implies giving way under pressure or temptation.

FAQs

How can I use "we can surrender" in a sentence?

You can use "we can surrender" to suggest yielding to a situation or opponent. For example, "After assessing our resources, "we can surrender" to their demands or continue fighting with minimal chance of success".

What is a less direct way to say "we can surrender"?

Alternatives to "we can surrender" include "we could give in", "we are able to yield", or "we have the option to concede", which soften the impact of admitting defeat.

When is it appropriate to use "we can surrender"?

It's appropriate to use "we can surrender" when realistically assessing options and determining that resistance is futile or the cost of continuing outweighs the benefits. Ensure the context doesn't portray a lack of determination when resolve is needed.

What's the difference between "we can surrender" and "we must surrender"?

"We can surrender" indicates a possible choice, while "we must surrender" implies a necessity or obligation. The former suggests optionality, whereas the latter implies no other viable alternatives exist.