Throwers-in-the-towel

This term, often used figuratively, refers to individuals or groups who relinquish a pursuit, competition, or effort, typically due to a perceived lack of success, exhaustion, or a shift in circumstances. It signifies a conscious decision to cease striving, abandon a plan, or accept defeat, often implying a loss of hope or the abandonment of a valued goal. 'Throwers-in-the-towel' can be used to describe withdrawal from negotiations, political campaigns, business ventures, athletic competitions, personal relationships, or any undertaking where persistence is crucial. The decision to 'throw in the towel' is usually associated with feelings of disappointment, discouragement, and a loss of belief in the possibility of a positive outcome.

Throwers-in-the-towel meaning with examples

• After months of struggling to secure funding, the small startup's founders, feeling exhausted and defeated, finally became throwers-in-the-towel, accepting their venture would fail. Despite passionate pitches and long hours, the lack of investment ultimately forced them to shut down their operations. This was due to the market's climate.
• The once-optimistic campaign team, witnessing steadily declining poll numbers and a lack of voter enthusiasm, began to look like throwers-in-the-towel, quietly dismantling their offices. Their candidate's chances for any sort of chance for win had vanished completely. After all the hard work, they accepted defeat.
• Many players in the sport that's tennis can become throwers-in-the-towel during grueling matches; physically and mentally depleted, they surrender to the inevitable loss, rather than continuing to battle, this can be due to injury as well. Facing a nearly insurmountable score gap, they quit, conserving their energy.
• The negotiators, unable to bridge the significant differences, eventually became throwers-in-the-towel, leaving the bargaining table with the deal dead and its original purpose and goal destroyed and lost. Each side's rigid stance ultimately made agreement impossible, and the goal was not possible.
• Witnessing escalating disagreements and a crumbling relationship, the couple ultimately became throwers-in-the-towel, accepting the dissolution of their bond. Despite prior promises to fight for the marriage, their ability to remain together completely was non-existent. It was time.