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Capitulate to Meaning in English

expression

kəˈpɪtʃuɫeɪt/, /kəˈpɪtʃuɫɪt/ /ˈtu/, /tə/, /tɪ
kuh-PITCH-uh-layt tuh
kɐpˈɪtʃʊlˌeɪt/ /tˈuː
kuh-PITCH-yuh-layt too

Definition

To finally stop resisting and accept or give in to the demands or control of someone or something, often after a struggle.

Usage & Nuances

Formal and literary; often used in historical, political, or negotiation contexts. Usually followed by a person, authority, or force ('capitulate to pressure', 'capitulate to enemy'). Implies reluctant or unwilling surrender after resistance. Less common in casual speech.

Example Sentences

After months of protest, the government finally capitulated to the demands of the people.

basic

He did not want to capitulate to his opponent's arguments, but he had no choice.

basic

The small town refused to capitulate to the invading army.

basic

In the end, their boss capitulated to public pressure and agreed to improve working conditions.

natural

Rather than capitulate to fear, she faced the difficult situation head-on.

natural

If you keep arguing, I might just capitulate to you out of exhaustion!

natural