To applaud enthusiastically for someone, or to stop trying at something or to quit a habit.
To clap for someone loudly, or to stop doing something.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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
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."
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.'
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "give it up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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