Capitulates

Capitulates means to cease to resist an opponent or unwelcome demand; to surrender. It implies a formal or often conditional yielding, usually in military or diplomatic contexts. The act of capitulating suggests a recognition of defeat or the futility of continued opposition. It can also relate to the abandonment of a principle or cause in the face of pressure or adverse circumstances. It may involve negotiating terms of surrender or accepting a condition that allows for survival or a diminished loss.

Capitulates meaning with examples

• The exhausted army, facing dwindling supplies and mounting casualties, finally capitulated to the relentless enemy siege. They raised the white flag, signaling their surrender and hoping for a lenient treatment. The king's advisors had been pleading for this course of action for weeks as their defenses had fallen. They had endured many battles.
• After a lengthy negotiation process, the company capitulated to the union's demands regarding improved working conditions and a higher wage. The threat of a strike had hung in the air for weeks. Many employees had already voted in favor of it. Management had a choice between taking a loss and possibly bankruptcy.
• The defendant, faced with overwhelming evidence and a plea bargain that promised a reduced sentence, decided to capitulate and plead guilty to the lesser charge. The prosecutors had many key witnesses. They had an airtight case. The defendants lawyer had warned of serious repercussions.
• Despite his strong political convictions, the politician capitulated under pressure from the media and public, publicly withdrawing his controversial proposal. There were many criticisms, and calls for his removal. The poll numbers had also slumped precipitously after a televised debate.