Surrender: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone gives up control or possession of something, often in a military or competitive context.

• The enemy was forced to surrender after the intense battle.
• The chess player decided to surrender his queen to gain a tactical advantage.

Used when someone gives way or relinquishes control, often in the context of argument, negotiation, or physical movement.

• She refused to yield her position despite the pressure from her colleagues.
• The driver had to yield to oncoming traffic.

Typically used in formal or serious situations where someone agrees to stop fighting or resisting, often under specific conditions.

• After several weeks of siege, the city finally capitulated to the invading forces.
• The company had to capitulate to the union's demands after a long negotiation.

Often used when someone gives in to a higher authority or force, implying a sense of yielding to power or pressure.

• The citizens were forced to submit to the new authoritarian regime.
• He decided to submit his resignation after the scandal.

Used when someone admits defeat or acknowledges that something is true, often in a humble or reluctant manner.

• After the election results were clear, the candidate conceded defeat.
• She had to concede that her opponent had a valid point.

Used in general contexts when someone gives up control or possession due to defeat or pressure, often used in both physical and metaphorical situations.

• After a long chase, the fugitive decided to surrender to the police
• She finally decided to surrender her feelings of anger and forgive him

Implies yielding or giving in, often due to force or authority, and can have a negative connotation implying weakness or lack of resistance.

• His submission to the demands of the dictator shocked his supporters
• The employee's submission to the unfair policy caused unrest in the team

Used when someone gives up resistance, often slowly or reluctantly. It can imply flexibility or adaptability in a positive sense.

• The stubborn soil finally showed signs of yielding to the gardener's persistent efforts
• Her yielding nature made her a great team player

Formal term often used in military or diplomatic contexts, implying a structured and often negotiated agreement to give up.

• The city’s capitulation was marked by a formal ceremony
• The company's capitulation after the long legal battle surprised everyone