give up
9 synonyms and 3 antonyms for give up, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Phrasal verb — To stop trying to do something because it has become too hard or seems hopeless.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. phrasal verb
To stop trying to do something because it has become too hard or seems hopeless.
“Don't give up now, you are two chapters from the end.”
Opposites
2. phrasal verb
To stop doing or having something, especially a habit or pleasure.
“He gave up smoking the day his daughter was born.”
3. phrasal verb
To hand something over, or to surrender yourself, to someone else.
“She gave up her seat to an older passenger.”
How to use give up
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Everyday English, suitable in all but the most formal writing, where 'abandon' or 'relinquish' may fit better.
