Acquiesce

To accept something reluctantly but without protest. It signifies a passive agreement or compliance, often implying a subtle form of surrender or yielding to the will or influence of another person or force. This acceptance might stem from a lack of power to resist, a belief that resistance is futile, or a desire to avoid conflict or unpleasant consequences. The act of acquiescing suggests a mental reservation, a lingering sense of reservation or disagreement that is not outwardly expressed. It's about going along with a decision or situation, even if one doesn't fully approve or wholeheartedly embrace it.

Acquiesce meaning with examples

• Despite her reservations about the project, she chose to acquiesce to her manager's demands, fearing repercussions for her career. She knew that pushing back would likely create tension and potentially damage her chances for promotion. So she reluctantly agreed to the new work schedule, even though it disrupted her personal life.
• After weeks of fruitless debate, the government had to acquiesce to public pressure and make compromises on the new environmental regulations. They felt they had no choice but to concede some key points to appease the protesting citizens, understanding they would be voted out next year.
• The prisoner of war had to acquiesce to his captor’s demands, recognizing the dire consequences of disobedience. Starving and outnumbered, he had to obey his enemy to survive and patiently await rescue. His decision, born out of fear for his own life, was the only choice.
• Faced with overwhelming evidence, the defendant was forced to acquiesce to the prosecution's claims, admitting guilt. After denying the charges for weeks, the evidence mounted and he realized that he had to accept his fate to make sure the prosecution was satisfied.