Capitulate means to give up or surrender, especially after resisting for some time. It is often used when someone stops fighting, arguing, or trying to continue because they can no longer win or keep going.
People use capitulate in everyday speech, news reports, and formal writing. It can describe a country surrendering in a war, a person giving in during an argument, or someone finally agreeing after strong pressure.
Meaning & Usage
Capitulate usually means to stop resisting and accept defeat or another person’s demand. It often sounds formal, so people use it more in writing or serious conversation than in casual talk.
Examples
The army was forced to capitulate after months of fighting.
After arguing for a while, she finally capitulated and agreed to the plan.
He refused to capitulate, even when everyone else gave in.
Is capitulate the same as surrender?
Yes, in many cases it is similar to surrender. But capitulate often sounds more formal and is used when someone gives in after pressure or resistance.
Can capitulate be used in daily life?
Yes. People may use it when someone gives in during an argument, negotiation, or disagreement.
Is capitulate a positive or negative word?
It is usually neutral, but it can sound negative if it means giving up too easily.