say uncle
Verbally tap out
Say uncle is to admit defeat or submit, typically under pressure or duress.
The phrase comes from childhood rough-housing, where one kid pins another and demands they "say uncle" before releasing them.
Adults use it figuratively for any situation where someone is forced to yield: The negotiations dragged on until they finally said uncle.
The origin of why "uncle" specifically signals surrender is unclear.
Yield under pressure
- yieldProduce or relinquish
- give inCease resistance, concede
- surrenderCease resistance, yield
- concedeAdmit something reluctantly
admit defeat · back down · cave · acquiesce · relent · throw in the towel · wave the white flag · buckle under
Playful, mild ridicule
- roughhousingRowdy physical play
- horseplayBoisterous rough behavior
- sibling rivalryCompetition between children sharing parents
- childhood gameAmusement from early years
wrestling match · prank · mischief · taunt · jest · good-natured · playground · schoolyard
capitulate
Yield under pressure
concede · admit defeat · back down · cave · acquiesce · relent · throw in the towel · wave the white flag · buckle under · succumb
teasing
Playful, mild ridicule
- roughhousingRowdy physical play
- horseplayBoisterous rough behavior
- sibling rivalryCompetition between children sharing parents
childhood game · wrestling match · prank · mischief · taunt · jest · good-natured · playground · schoolyard · banter
pressure
Force upon contact
intimidate · bully · strong-arm · twist arm · threaten · push · demand · insist · make · wrestle
overpower
Defeat by superior force
subdue · triumph · prevail · beat · crush · dominate · master · overcome · best · pin down
- fighting wordsfight me, bring it, square up, throw hands, step outside
say unclehold out
Refuse to concede
keep fighting · stand firm · resist · persevere · hold one's ground
say uncleprevail
To succeed ultimately
triumph · win · overcome · conquer · come out on top