Give up Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Perseverance Context Used when someone stops after repeated failures or difficulties, not an easy decision. She gave up mastering the violin, despite years of practice. Pro Tip 2/3Non-Instant Process Implying a process over time; the giving up is not usually sudden. Eventually, after much struggle, he gave up competing professionally. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation Often viewed negatively, as in surrendering or lacking resilience. Despite her talent, others felt she gave up too easily.