English Phrase of the Day

Definitions

English > English
give up
1. v. To surrender (someone or something)
He was surrounded, so gave himself up.
They gave him up to the police.
2. v. To stop or quit (an activity, etc.)
They gave up the search when it got dark.
3. v. To relinquish (something)
He gave up his seat to an old man.
4. v. To lose hope concerning (someone or something)
They gave him up for dead.
5. v. To abandon (someone or something)
I gave up my faith years ago.
6. v. (intransitive) To admit defeat, capitulate
OK, I give up, you win.
7. v. Become fully took over by a certain quality, activity, trait, &c.
Analysis
give		©
1. v. (ditransitive) To move, shift, provide something abstract or concrete to someone or something or somewhere.
2. v.          To transfer one's possession or holding of (something) to (someone).
I gave him my coat.
I gave my coat to the beggar.
When they asked, I gave my coat.
up		©
1. adv. Away from the surface of the Earth or other planet; in opposite direction to the downward pull of gravity.
I looked up and saw the airplane overhead.
2. adv. (intensifier) Used as an aspect marker to indicate a completed action or state Thoroughly, completely.
I will mix up the puzzle pieces.
Tear up the contract.

Example Sentences

You're not going to give up, are you?  I would be nuts to give up a good scam like this.  It sounds good but who is to say that the loser will give up the spoils.  So you're going to just bleat and give up?  If you give up on me now I'll be gutted like I've never been before.

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