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Capitulate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To capitulate means to surrender or give in to an opponent or demand, often after resisting initially. It implies yielding under pressure or accepting defeat.

capitulate

/kəˈpɪtʃəˌleɪt/ /kəˈpɪtjʊleɪt/

Definition:

To surrender or yield under agreed conditions, often after resistance.

Synonyms:

Surrender, yield, submit, relent, concede

Part of Speech:

Verb

Antonyms:

Resist, defy, oppose

Common Collocations:

Capitulate to demands, capitulate under pressure, forced to capitulate

Derivatives:

Capitulation, capitulator

Usage Tips:

Use "capitulate" when someone gives in after prolonged resistance or negotiation.

Common Phrases:

Capitulate to fate, capitulate without a fight

Etymology:

From Latin *capitulare* ("to draw up under headings"), from *caput* ("head").

Examples:

  • 1. The enemy forces had no choice but to capitulate.
  • 2. She refused to capitulate despite the overwhelming pressure.
  • 3. The rebels were forced to capitulate after months of fighting.
  • 4. He finally capitulated and agreed to their terms.

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