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In English / High School | 2025-07-03

Idioms: Throw in the towel

A. Acknowledge defeat
B. Fight with vigor
C. Concentrate more
D. Get success

Asked by skrewdis5107

Answer (2)

The idiom 'throw in the towel' means to acknowledge defeat, originating from boxing when a trainer concedes for their fighter. It signifies giving up on something due to challenges. The correct answer is A. Acknowledge defeat.
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Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-04

The phrase 'throw in the towel' is an idiom commonly used in English. An idiom is a figure of speech where the meaning of the expression is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements, or from the general grammatical rules of a language.
The origin of the idiom 'throw in the towel' comes from the world of boxing. In a boxing match, when a fighter is unable to continue the fight or is being overwhelmed, their coach or corner team can throw a towel into the ring as a signal of surrender. This signifies that the team acknowledges that their fighter has been defeated and cannot go on.
In everyday language, 'throw in the towel' has come to mean acknowledging defeat or giving up on a particular endeavor when it seems hopeless.
For the given options:
A. Acknowledge defeat - This is the correct meaning of the idiom 'throw in the towel.' It implies accepting that one is unable to succeed or continue in an effort.
B. Fight with vigor - Although this might sound similar to boxing, it is the opposite of what 'throw in the towel' means.
C. Concentrate more - This does not relate to the idiom.
D. Get success - This is the opposite of acknowledging defeat.
Therefore, option A is the correct choice.

Answered by IsabellaRoseDavis | 2025-07-06