throw in the towel
idiomE
To give up or admit defeat in a situation
- 1After trying for hours, he decided to throw in the towel.
- 2She didn't want to throw in the towel despite the challenges.
When you "throw in the towel," it means you are giving up because you feel like you can't win or succeed in a situation. It's like saying, "I give up" or "I admit defeat." It's a way of showing that you are done trying.
Remember, "throw in the towel" comes from boxing, where a fighter's coach would throw a towel into the ring to signal surrender. So, think of it as waving a white flag in a tough situation.
at the hotel reception
A Change of Plans
Sandra
I can't believe the conference got canceled last minute.
Donald
Yeah, after all the planning, they just decided to throw in the towel.
Sandra
It's disappointing, but I guess we can explore the city instead.
Donald
Good idea, let's make the most of our time here.
at a car showroom
Negotiation Standstill
Sarah
I've been trying to get a better price on this car for hours.
Paul
Sometimes it's tough to get them to budge.
Sarah
Yeah, I think I might just throw in the towel and look elsewhere.
Paul
That might be a good idea if they're not willing to negotiate.
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Similar to "throw in the towel":
- 1surrender
- 2quit
- 3give up