Relinquish: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone gives up something, often unwillingly or because they must. It is often used in formal contexts.

• She had to relinquish control of the company due to her health issues.
• He decided to relinquish his role as manager.

This is used in contexts involving giving up or yielding usually under pressure or force, such as in a battle or conflict. It often has a negative connotation implying defeat.

• The enemy was forced to surrender after a prolonged siege.
• She had to surrender her passport to the authorities.

This term is mainly used in formal or legal contexts when transferring rights or territory to another entity. It has a neutral to slightly negative tone, depending on circumstances.

• The country agreed to cede the disputed territory as part of the peace treaty.
• He will cede his position as chairman to the new appointee.

Typically used when giving way to someone or something else. It is formal but common in both physical and metaphorical situations. It has a generally neutral tone.

• You must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.
• He yielded to her request to take a break.

Used when someone formally declares abandonment of a belief, claim, or position. It often carries connotations of strong or public rejection.

• She decided to renounce her claim to the throne.
• He renounced his membership in the controversial organization.

Use this when you need to give up something willingly, often involving a sense of loss or sacrifice.

• She had to relinquish her dream of becoming a ballet dancer due to her injury.
• He relinquished control of the company to his daughter.

Appropriate for formal situations when you free someone or something from confinement or obligation.

• The company released a statement addressing the concerns.
• They released the bird back into the wild after nursing it back to health.

Commonly used in more casual or emotional contexts, meaning to release or stop holding on to something both physically and emotionally.

• She had to let go of her past to move forward in life.
• He finally let go of the rope when he felt it was safe.

This is used when you leave something behind without any intention to return, often in a careless or irresponsible manner.

• They abandoned the old building when it became dangerous.
• She felt abandoned when her friends didn't show up at the party.

This word is suitable when you decide not to take part in something or to give up on something attractive or enjoyable.

• He decided to forgo dessert to stick to his diet.
• They chose to forgo the extra vacation days to finish the project.