Throw in the Towel — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

To admit defeat and stop trying.

When you throw in the towel, you decide that going on is no longer worth it.

It comes from boxing, where a corner team throws a towel in to stop the fight.

Use it when…

When someone gives up on a project or goal after repeated failures
When a person decides a relationship or situation isn't worth continuing
When someone stops fighting for something they previously cared about

Don’t confuse with...

"Give Up the Ghost"

—

Accept that something has already failed or come to an end

"Wave the White Flag"

—

Publicly surrender or admit defeat to others

"Throw in the Towel"

—

Actively decide to stop trying and admit defeat

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Throw in the Towel" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Corporate Issues

After three rounds of funding fell through, the startup co-founders decided to throw in the towel and shut down the company.

Relationships & Social Life

Romantic Partners

After months of arguments with no resolution, she finally threw in the towel and ended the relationship.

Media & Everyday Life

TV Shows / Movies

The underdog fighter's coach threw in the towel in the seventh round to protect his athlete from further punishment.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Throw in the Towel" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Problem-Solving

Colleague

We've tried six different approaches and nothing is working.

You

I'm not ready to throw in the towel yet — let's sleep on it and try one more angle.

Relationships

Resolving Issues

You

I feel like you've already thrown in the towel on us.

Partner

I haven't — I'm just exhausted. I still want to work through this.

Everyday Conversations

Reacting to Situations

Friend

How's the novel coming along?

You

I threw in the towel. Three months in and I had nothing worth keeping.

‹›

Last updated:

October 4, 2026

Become an Insider

Get exclusive invitations to try our new English online courses FOR FREE.

Enjoy special discounts and unique offers for club members only!

Become an Insider

Tell us a bit about you to unlock more relevant content and insider perks.

Where do you want to improve your English?*

Helps us tailor content to you.

Select an option

Where are you based? (optional)

Select country

What's your native language? (optional)

Select language

First Name (optional)

I consent to theidiomdaily.com collecting and storing my data for the purpose of sending newsletters, updates, and promotional content. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in the emails. By checking this box, I agree to the Privacy Policy.

You’re in! Welcome to
the Insider Club.

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.

Unsubscribe
anytime.

Trusted by

1M+

English learners &
teachers worldwide