Capitulation: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word in formal or military contexts, especially when referring to a comprehensive and total giving up of resistance or defense, often involving terms or conditions.

• The city's capitulation marked the end of the long siege.
• The terms of the capitulation were harsh but necessary.

Generally used in both formal and informal situations to describe stopping resistance and giving up to an opponent. It conveys an acknowledgment that further resistance is useless.

• After hours of fighting, they had no choice but to surrender.
• He finally surrendered to his cravings and ate the cake.

This term is often used in contexts where someone is giving in to authority, control, or a higher power, and can imply a voluntary act. It is also used in competitive situations, such as sports or contests.

• Her submission to the rules was immediate and unquestioning.
• The wrestler forced his opponent into submission.

This word is used in various contexts, often implying a degree of flexibility, compromise, or a gradual giving way under pressure. It can also refer to physical properties.

• Her yielding nature made it easier for them to reach an agreement.
• The door was yielding slowly to the pressure.

This is used when talking about a total surrender, often in a formal or military context. It implies giving up completely to an opponent.

• The general's capitulation ended the war.
• The team's capitulation in the last quarter cost them the match.

Use this word when two or more parties come to a mutual understanding or decision. It typically has a neutral or positive connotation.

• They reached an agreement on the new contract.
• Both companies signed the agreement yesterday.

Compromise is appropriate when each party gives up something to reach a middle ground. This word is often used in discussions and negotiations.

• Finding a compromise on the budget was difficult.
• They compromised by meeting halfway.

This word is used when one party agrees to give up something, often reluctantly, to settle a dispute or reach an agreement. It has a slight negative undertone of giving in.

• The workers agreed to some concessions in their demands.
• The concession was made to avoid further conflict.