cave in

The term "cave in" can describe both a physical collapse and a metaphorical surrender, illustrating a breakdown either structurally or in resolve.

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Definition

B2Structural

(common)To collapse inward or downward due to pressure or weakness.

Example

  • The old building caved in during the earthquake.

B2Figurative

(common)To yield or surrender under pressure, often after initial resistance.

Example

  • After hours of negotiation, she finally caved in to their demands.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "cave in":

give incave outgo underfall intofall ingo undergroundgive groundfall downtake a divefall tofall overgive wayfall togetherfall outfall throughfall into oneself