give up
/ɡɪv ʌp/
Meaning
To stop trying to do something, often because it is too difficult. It can also mean to stop a habit (like smoking) or to surrender. It is a very common phrasal verb used in both casual and professional contexts.
Examples
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I tried to solve the puzzle for an hour, but I finally gave up.
I tried to solve the puzzle for an hour, but I finally gave up.
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You shouldn't give up on your dreams just because of one setback.
You shouldn't give up on your dreams just because of one setback.
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He decided to give up smoking for his health.
He decided to give up smoking for his health.
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Don't give up yet; we are so close to finishing the project!
Don't give up yet; we are so close to finishing the project!
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She gave up her seat on the bus to an elderly woman.
She gave up her seat on the bus to an elderly woman.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I gave up to smoke last year.
✓ I gave up smoking last year.
'Give up' is followed by a gerund (-ing form), not an infinitive, when meaning to stop a habit.
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✗ Don't give up yourself.
✓ Don't give up on yourself.
'Give up' is intransitive when it means to stop trying. If you want to direct it at yourself as a person, you must use the preposition 'on'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I've been trying to fix this computer all morning, but I'm ready to ___.
💡 Stop trying to do something.
Show answer
give up
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She had to ___ drinking coffee because it kept her awake at night.
💡 Stop a habit.
Show answer
give up