Jeter l'éponge
Example: Après plusieurs tentatives, il a finalement jeté l'éponge.
Definition
"Jeter l'éponge" is a French expression meaning to give up or surrender after several attempts, especially when facing difficulties or failure. It is often used to describe someone who decides to stop trying and accept defeat, as in the example, "Après plusieurs tentatives, il a finalement jeté l'éponge."
Etymology
The phrase "Jeter l'éponge" literally means "to throw the sponge." It originates from boxing, where a trainer throws a sponge into the ring to signal their fighter's surrender. This vivid image has been adopted into everyday language to signify giving up or quitting a struggle.
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"Jeter l'éponge" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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To throw in the towel