English · Work & Business
throw in the towel
/θrəʊ ɪn ðə ˈtaʊ.əl/
[/θrəʊ ɪn ðə ˈtaʊ.əl/]
give up
Intermediatephrase
Definition
To admit defeat and stop trying.
Example
After months of setbacks, the startup founders finally threw in the towel and closed the company.
After months of setbacks, the startup founders finally threw in the towel and closed the company.
Etymology
From boxing, where a fighter's corner throws a towel into the ring to concede the match.
How & Where It’s Used
Common for admitting defeat after sustained effort.