capitulate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
capitulate Word Meanings
- to surrender under agreed conditions
- to give up resistance
- to yield or submit
capitulate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
capitulate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˈpɪtʃʊlɪt/
US
/kəˈpɪtʃʊleɪt/
capitulate Word Etymology
capitulate = caput (head) + -ulate (cause to be); from Latin ‘capitulare’ meaning to negotiate or settle. Imagine a battle where the defeated leader kneels before the victor, presenting their head to surrender, illustrating the act of capitulation as submission and agreement.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Capitulate means to surrender, usually after an agreement on terms. It is a formal, somewhat old-fashioned word often used in military, diplomatic, or competitive contexts. When one side capitulates, it gives up resistance and accepts conditions set by the other side. The focus is on the negotiated settlement rather than unforced retreat. In modern English, capitulate can apply to negotiations, a sports match, or a stubborn stance being abandoned after pressure. It carries a nuance of yielding to superior force through an agreement rather than simply running away. Learners should note the noun capitulation as the act or condition of surrender.
Usage Reminders
- - Capitulate is more formal than surrender.
- - It usually implies a negotiated surrender.
- - You capitulate to pressure or to a demand.
- - The noun is capitulation, not capitulate.
- - Use capitulate when describing a settlement rather than a quick retreat.
Common Misconceptions
- Capitulate = surrender in all contexts, with the same tone
- It always means defeat in war and is never used metaphorically
- Capitulate can be used in casual everyday speech without sounding odd
- It cannot take a direct object (you capitulate to someone, not capitulate someone)
- Capitulation is never used in legal or diplomatic discussions
Thinking Differences
In English, capitulate leans formal and often historical or diplomatic; learners tend to over- or under-use it, confusing it with everyday surrender. Remember it marks a negotiated surrender, not a sudden retreat.
Learning Tips
- Link capitulate to a negotiated surrender, not a quick retreat
- Compare with surrender, yield, concede to learn subtler differences
- Watch for noun capitulation and its use in news or history
- Practice with past tense and passive voice forms
- Use in formal writing to sound precise
- Learn common collocations like capitulate to pressure
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'capitulate'?
A.Negotiate
B.Celebrate
C.Surrender
D.Investigate
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'capitulate' correctly?
A.I will negotiate the terms of the contract.
B.She celebrated her birthday with friends.
C.He decided to capitulate in the negotiation.
D.They investigated the crime scene thoroughly.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'capitulate'?
A.Persist
B.Succumb
C.Endure
D.Challenge
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'capitulate'?
A.Yield
B.Submit
C.Concede
D.Resist
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario might someone capitulate?
A.When celebrating a victory
B.When facing defeat in a competition
C.When starting a new project
D.When negotiating a peace treaty
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