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give it up

B1 informal inseparable both
In simple words

To clap for someone loudly, or to stop doing something.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

Used as an instruction to applaud or cheer enthusiastically for someone, typically a performer.

"Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for tonight's special guest!"

"Give it up for the best entertainer in the world!"

— Common phrase used by American TV hosts and DJs; frequently used by Jay Leno, Jimmy Fallon, and others on late-night television
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To stop trying at something or to abandon a habit or activity.

"If you can't solve it after an hour, just give it up and ask for help."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

The 'applaud' sense ('Give it up for...!') is extremely common in entertainment contexts, especially in American English, used by TV presenters, DJs, and concert hosts. The 'quit' sense is more general. The imperative 'give it up!' can also mean 'admit defeat' or 'stop trying.'

Commonly used with

audience crowd performer habit smoking dream

Forms

Base
give it up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gives it up
he/she/it
Past simple
gave it up
yesterday
Past participle
given it up
have + pp
-ing form
giving it up
continuous

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