Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to-throw-in-the-towel
idiom
/tə ˈθroʊ ɪn ði ˈtaʊəl/
Definition
To give up or admit defeat, often after trying hard in a challenging situation.
Examples
- After months of struggling to complete the project, she finally decided to throw in the towel.
- Despite his efforts, he had to throw in the towel on his dream of becoming a professional athlete.
- It’s okay to throw in the towel sometimes; knowing your limits is important.
Meaning
This phrase originates from boxing, where a trainer might throw a towel into the ring to signify that their fighter can no longer continue. It’s often used metaphorically to indicate surrendering in various situations.
Synonyms
- give up
- quit
- surrender
- admit defeat
