Definition of Surrender
Quick Meaning of Surrender
To give up completely and stop fighting or resisting. To hand over control or yourself to someone else.
Detailed Definition of Surrender
To give up power, control, or possession; to cease resistance and submit; to give oneself up, especially to authorities.
How to Pronounce Surrender
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: sur-REN-der. The first syllable 'sur' sounds like 'ser' in 'serve'. The final 'er' is reduced and sounds like 'ur'.
Watch out: Learners may stress the first syllable (SUR-ren-der) or all three equally. Correct: sur-REN-der with emphasis on the middle syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Surrender
From Old French 'surrendre' (sur- = over + rendre = to give/return). Used in military contexts since 14th century. Related to 'render'.
How to Use Surrender in a Sentence
Each example shows “surrender” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“The general ordered his troops to surrender to avoid further casualties.”
-
“She had to surrender her passport at the border control.”
-
“The suspect decided to surrender to police rather than face a manhunt.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Surrender
Common Synonyms for Surrender
Smart Synonyms for Surrender — When to Use Each
- give up
- More informal; same basic meaning as surrender
- capitulate
- More formal; to surrender
- yield
- To concede pressure; slightly less absolute than surrender
- submit
- To accept authority or control
Common Collocations with Surrender
These phrases pair with “surrender” in everyday English:
- surrender to
- surrender control
- surrender weapons
- surrender passport
- unconditional surrender
Common Mistakes When Using Surrender
Even fluent speakers slip up with “surrender”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The soldier surrendered at the enemy.
- ✓ Correct: The soldier surrendered to the enemy. / The soldier laid down his weapons before the enemy.
- Why: 'Surrender to' is the correct preposition. 'At' does not work here.
- ✗ Wrong: She surrendered her dream.
- ✓ Correct: She abandoned her dream. / She gave up on her dream. / She relinquished her ambitions.
- Why: 'Surrender' is too strong and formal for personal dreams. Use 'give up' or 'abandon' for personal goals.
- ✗ Wrong: The negotiators surrendered an agreement.
- ✓ Correct: The negotiators reached an agreement. / The two sides agreed to terms.
- Why: 'Surrender' is not used this way. You surrender TO something or someone, not an abstract agreement.
Other Forms of Surrender
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrender
What is the meaning of "Surrender"?
To give up completely and stop fighting or resisting. To hand over control or yourself to someone else.
How do you pronounce "Surrender"?
The IPA is /səˈrendər/. Stress the second syllable: sur-REN-der. The first syllable 'sur' sounds like 'ser' in 'serve'. The final 'er' is reduced and sounds like 'ur'.
What part of speech is "Surrender"?
"Surrender" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Surrender"?
Common synonyms include give up, yield, capitulate.
How do you use "Surrender" in a sentence?
For example: "The general ordered his troops to surrender to avoid further casualties."