Translation guide
To stop resisting an opponent or demand; to surrender or give in.
To formally stop fighting and accept defeat.
The standard term for military surrender. Used for armies, nations, or individuals in a conflict.
敵軍はついに降伏した。
The enemy army finally capitulated.
To lay down arms and surrender, often used for individuals or small groups giving themselves up.
To stop resisting and agree to something after being pressured.
To stop resisting because the situation is hopeless or further resistance is futile.
降伏 (こうふく) is a general surrender, often by a larger group or nation. 投降 (とうこう) specifically means laying down arms and physically giving oneself up, used for individuals or small units.
In everyday English, 'capitulate' can be used lightly (e.g., 'I capitulated and bought the shoes'). In Japanese, direct translations like 降伏する sound overly dramatic. Use 折れる or 諦める instead.
The soldiers were urged to capitulate.
To yield or give in under pressure. Often used with に to indicate what one yields to.
彼は脅迫に屈して要求を受け入れた。
He capitulated to the threats and accepted the demands.
Literally 'to bend', used metaphorically to mean giving in or compromising, especially in arguments or negotiations.
交渉で相手が折れて、値下げに応じた。
The other party capitulated in the negotiations and agreed to a price reduction.
Literally 'to raise a white flag', a vivid metaphor for admitting defeat or giving up.
長時間の議論の末、彼は白旗を上げた。
After a long debate, he capitulated.
To give up or resign oneself. Common in everyday speech when one stops fighting against circumstances.
彼は説得を諦めて、その計画を受け入れた。
He capitulated on persuading them and accepted the plan.
To resign oneself to fate; to give up hope of resistance. Slightly formal or literary.
彼は逃げられないと観念して、警察に出頭した。
Realizing he couldn't escape, he capitulated and turned himself in to the police.