opgeven in 30 Seconds
- Meaning: To stop trying, quit, or surrender.
- Usage: Common in sports, studies, and personal goals.
- Key phrase: 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!).
- Context is crucial: Can also mean to register/report.
- Core Meaning
- The Dutch verb 'opgeven' fundamentally means to stop trying, to give up, or to quit. It implies ceasing an effort or activity, often due to difficulty, lack of motivation, or a realization that success is unlikely. This can apply to a wide range of situations, from physical challenges to academic pursuits, or even personal goals.
- Contexts of Use
- You'll hear 'opgeven' in discussions about sports, where athletes might give up if injured or too far behind. In education, students might 'opgeven' a difficult subject. In personal development, someone might decide to 'opgeven' a bad habit. It can also be used more passively, like giving up a claim or a right, though this is less common in everyday conversation and leans towards legal or formal contexts.
- Nuances
- The decision to 'opgeven' can be seen as a sign of weakness or realism, depending on the situation. Sometimes, it's a wise choice to conserve energy or focus on more achievable goals. Other times, it's viewed as a failure to persevere. The tone and surrounding words will indicate whether 'opgeven' is considered a negative surrender or a pragmatic decision. For instance, saying 'Ik ga niet opgeven!' (I will not give up!) is a strong declaration of determination.
Hij wilde de marathon opgeven na 30 kilometer.
Na veel mislukkingen besloot ze haar droom te opgeven.
- Emotional Weight
- The act of 'opgeven' can carry significant emotional weight. It might be associated with disappointment, relief, resignation, or even a sense of defeat. The Dutch culture, like many others, often values perseverance, so deciding to 'opgeven' might be a difficult decision that is discussed or reflected upon.
- Figurative Use
- Beyond literal giving up, 'opgeven' can be used figuratively. For example, one might 'opgeven' a certain lifestyle or a belief system, meaning to abandon it. It can also be used in relation to giving up one's life, which is a very serious and sensitive context.
Hij kon het niet opgeven, zelfs niet toen het moeilijk werd.
- Basic Structure
- The most common structure is Subject + 'opgeven' + (Object/Activity). The infinitive form is 'opgeven', but it conjugates like any other Dutch verb. For example, 'ik geef op' (I give up), 'jij geeft op' (you give up), 'hij/zij/het geeft op' (he/she/it gives up), 'wij geven op' (we give up), 'jullie geven op' (you all give up), 'zij geven op' (they give up). The past tense is 'gaf op' (gave up) and the past participle is 'opgegeven'.
- With Direct Objects
- You can often specify what is being given up. This could be a physical object, a task, a goal, or even a person (in the sense of giving up on them). For example: 'Hij gaf zijn droom op.' (He gave up his dream.) 'Stop met roken, geef die gewoonte op.' (Stop smoking, give up that habit.) 'Ik ga mijn positie niet opgeven.' (I will not give up my position.)
- With Infinitive Clauses
- 'Opgeven' can be followed by an infinitive clause, often introduced by 'om te', indicating the purpose or the action that is being given up. For example: 'Hij besloot om niet op te geven.' (He decided not to give up.) 'Het is moeilijk om een project op te geven als je er al zoveel tijd in hebt gestoken.' (It's difficult to give up a project when you've already put so much time into it.)
- In Negative Sentences
- The phrase 'niet opgeven' is very common and expresses determination. 'Ik geef niet op!' (I won't give up!) is a powerful statement. 'We mogen de hoop niet opgeven.' (We must not give up hope.)
- Reflexive Use (Less Common)
- While not the primary meaning, in some very specific contexts, it can be used reflexively, implying giving oneself up. However, this is rare and usually better expressed with other verbs. For standard usage, focus on the non-reflexive form.
Zelfs na veel tegenslagen, weigerde hij op te opgeven.
De trainer moedigde het team aan om niet op te opgeven.
- Using the Past Participle
- The past participle 'opgegeven' is used in perfect tenses. For example: 'Ik heb het opgegeven.' (I have given it up.) 'Zij hadden de hoop al opgegeven.' (They had already given up hope.)
- Common Verb Combinations
- You'll frequently see 'opgeven' used with verbs that express intention or decision, such as 'willen opgeven' (to want to give up), 'kunnen opgeven' (to be able to give up), 'besluiten op te geven' (to decide to give up), 'weigeren op te geven' (to refuse to give up), and 'moeten opgeven' (to have to give up).
De patiënt voelde zich zo zwak dat hij wilde opgeven.
- Sports Commentary
- In Dutch sports broadcasts, commentators frequently use 'opgeven' when an athlete is struggling, injured, or trailing significantly. You might hear phrases like 'Hij lijkt op te geven' (He seems to be giving up), 'Ze heeft overwogen op te geven' (She considered giving up), or 'Het is belangrijk om niet op te geven, zelfs niet als je achterstaat' (It's important not to give up, even when you're behind). This is especially common in endurance sports like cycling (e.g., Tour de France) and running marathons.
- Educational Settings
- Teachers, students, and parents might discuss the tendency to 'opgeven' on challenging subjects or difficult coursework. A teacher might say, 'Geef niet te snel op, probeer het nog een keer' (Don't give up too quickly, try again). Students might confess, 'Ik wilde dit vak bijna opgeven' (I almost wanted to give up this subject).
- Motivational Speeches and Media
- Motivational speakers and self-help content often use 'opgeven' to emphasize the importance of perseverance. They might urge their audience, 'Geef nooit op!' (Never give up!). News articles about inspiring individuals who overcame adversity will also feature this word, highlighting their refusal to 'opgeven'.
- Everyday Conversations
- In casual conversations, friends might talk about giving up on a hobby, a difficult task, or even a relationship. For example, 'Ik probeerde dat recept, maar het lukte niet en ik gaf het op.' (I tried that recipe, but it didn't work and I gave up.) Or, 'Hij heeft het opgegeven om haar te overtuigen.' (He has given up trying to convince her.)
- Discussions about Health and Well-being
- When discussing health journeys, diets, or recovery from illness, 'opgeven' is common. A doctor might advise a patient, 'Het is cruciaal dat u niet opgeeft tijdens de revalidatie.' (It is crucial that you do not give up during rehabilitation.) Patients might share their struggles: 'Soms voelt het alsof ik wil opgeven, maar ik probeer door te zetten.' (Sometimes it feels like I want to give up, but I try to push through.)
De commentator zei: 'Hij lijkt de strijd op te opgeven.'
In de les werd gezegd: 'Je mag nooit een moeilijk probleem op opgeven.'
- News and Current Affairs
- News reports might cover situations where individuals or groups have had to 'opgeven' certain plans or initiatives due to unforeseen circumstances, funding issues, or political opposition. For example, 'De organisatie moest haar project opgeven wegens gebrek aan middelen.' (The organization had to give up its project due to lack of resources.)
- Personal Anecdotes
- People often share personal stories about times they've wanted to 'opgeven' but didn't, or times they had to. These anecdotes are rich in emotional context and provide excellent examples of the verb's usage. 'Ik dacht eraan om mijn baan op te geven, maar toen besloot ik te blijven.' (I thought about giving up my job, but then I decided to stay.)
De marathonloper heeft de handdoek in de ring gegooid, hij gaf op.
- Confusing with 'afgeven' or 'geven'
- A common error for learners is to confuse 'opgeven' with 'geven' (to give) or 'afgeven' (to hand over, to emit). 'Geven' is a general term for giving something. 'Afgeven' typically means to hand something to someone or to emit a substance. 'Opgeven' specifically means to cease trying or to quit. For example, you don't 'geven' a race, you 'opgeven' a race if you stop participating. You don't 'afgeven' your effort; you 'opgeven' your effort.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation/Separation
- As 'opgeven' is a separable verb, learners can struggle with when to separate the prefix 'op'. In the present and past tense, it separates: 'Ik geef het op' (I give it up), 'Hij gaf de hoop op' (He gave up hope). However, in infinitive clauses (e.g., following 'willen', 'kunnen', 'moeten') and in subordinate clauses, it stays together: 'Ik wil het niet opgeven' (I don't want to give it up), 'om op te geven' (to give up). Incorrectly placing 'op' at the end in an infinitive clause or keeping it attached in a main clause can sound unnatural.
- Overusing 'opgeven' for 'surrendering'
- While 'opgeven' means to quit or give up, it's not always the best word for 'surrendering' in a conflict or battle. For surrender in a war context, 'capituleren' is more appropriate. 'Opgeven' is more about ceasing personal effort or abandoning a personal goal. Using 'opgeven' for a military surrender might sound odd or less precise.
- Literal Translation from English
- English speakers might try to translate phrases like 'give up a job' or 'give up smoking' too literally. While 'opgeven' can work for 'give up smoking' (in the sense of quitting), for 'give up a job', it depends on the nuance. If you're quitting, 'opgeven' is fine. If you're relinquishing it formally, other verbs might be better. Be mindful of the specific context rather than a direct word-for-word translation.
- Misinterpreting 'giving up hope'
- While 'de hoop opgeven' (to give up hope) is correct, learners might sometimes use 'opgeven' in contexts where 'loslaten' (to let go) or 'accepteren' (to accept) might be more fitting, especially when it's about accepting a situation rather than actively abandoning a pursuit. However, 'de hoop opgeven' is a very standard phrase.
Fout: Ik wil mijn baan geven. Correct: Ik wil mijn baan opgeven.
Fout: Hij zal het niet op te geven. Correct: Hij zal het niet opgeven.
- Confusing with 'afleggen'
- Sometimes, learners might confuse 'opgeven' with 'afleggen', which can mean to take an exam or to lay down (e.g., arms). While 'afleggen' is used in the context of exams ('een examen afleggen' - to take an exam), 'opgeven' is used when you decide not to continue with the exam or the subject. For example, you might 'opgeven' a course, and then you wouldn't 'afleggen' the final exam.
- Using 'opgeven' for 'giving up a right'
- While technically possible, in more formal or legal contexts, phrases like 'een recht opgeven' might sound slightly informal. Verbs like 'verzaakten' (to renounce) or 'laten varen' (to abandon) might be preferred depending on the exact legal or formal nuance. However, in everyday speech, 'opgeven' is generally understood.
Fout: Hij gaf de race af. Correct: Hij gaf de race op.
- Stoppen met (to stop with)
- 'Stoppen met' is a very general verb meaning 'to stop'. It can be used in many contexts where 'opgeven' might also apply, but it lacks the specific nuance of ceasing effort due to difficulty or lack of success.
Example Comparison:
'Hij stopte met rennen.' (He stopped running.) - This is neutral, he just stopped.
'Hij gaf het rennen op.' (He gave up running.) - This implies he stopped because it was too hard or he wasn't succeeding. - Beëindigen (to end, to terminate)
- 'Beëindigen' is a more formal verb, typically used for ending contracts, agreements, or formal processes. It's less about personal effort and more about formal cessation.
Example Comparison:
'De overeenkomst werd beëindigd.' (The agreement was terminated.) - Formal ending.
'Hij gaf zijn pogingen op.' (He gave up his attempts.) - Personal effort ceased. - Resigneren (to resign)
- 'Resigneren' means to resign, often in the sense of accepting a bad situation and ceasing to fight against it. It carries a stronger sense of passive acceptance and sometimes a feeling of defeat than 'opgeven'.
Example Comparison:
'Hij moest resignereren voor de onvermijdelijke uitkomst.' (He had to resign himself to the inevitable outcome.) - Accepting fate.
'Ze weigerde op te geven, ondanks de tegenslagen.' (She refused to give up, despite the setbacks.) - Actively continuing effort. - Loslaten (to let go)
- 'Loslaten' means to let go, which can be similar to giving up a mental attachment or a desire. It's more about releasing something emotionally or mentally.
Example Comparison:
'Hij moest zijn wrok loslaten.' (He had to let go of his resentment.) - Emotional release.
'Hij gaf zijn ambitie op.' (He gave up his ambition.) - Ceased pursuing it. - Opgeven (in the sense of reporting/registering)
- Interestingly, 'opgeven' also has a completely different meaning: to report, to register, or to give up information. This is a crucial distinction to be aware of.
Example Comparison:
'Je moet je gegevens opgeven.' (You must provide your details.) - Registering information.
'Ik ga deze wedstrijd niet opgeven.' (I am not going to give up this competition.) - Ceasing effort.
Ze stopte met haar studie, maar ze gaf niet op met haar hobby.
Hij moest resignereren, want verder vechten had geen zin.
- Verzaken (to renounce, to fail to perform)
- 'Verzaken' often implies failing to fulfill a duty or obligation, or renouncing something formally, like a right or a claim. It can overlap with giving up, but often with a sense of responsibility or commitment.
Example Comparison:
'Hij verzaakte zijn plicht.' (He failed to perform his duty.) - Duty-related.
'Hij gaf zijn hoop op.' (He gave up his hope.) - Personal feeling/goal.
Je moet je naam opgeven bij de receptie.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The prefix 'op-' in Dutch can have various meanings, including 'up', 'open', or 'off'. In 'opgeven', it signifies the direction of giving something 'up' or 'away' from oneself, leading to the meaning of relinquishing control or effort. This is distinct from 'opgeven' meaning 'to register' or 'to report', where 'op' might have a different semantic nuance related to 'upon' or 'adding to'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'g' too softly, like an English 'g' in 'go'. It should be a fricative sound.
- Pronouncing the 'ee' sound as a short 'e' (like in 'bed'). It's a long 'ay' sound.
- Incorrect stress placement, putting it on the second syllable instead of the first.
Difficulty Rating
Understanding 'opgeven' requires grasping the context of effort and cessation. Distinguishing it from 'stoppen' or 'beëindigen' is key. The dual meaning (quit vs. register) adds complexity.
Correctly using 'opgeven', especially regarding verb separation and choosing the right synonym based on register, can be challenging.
Pronunciation of the Dutch 'g' and correct sentence structure, particularly with separable verbs, are important for fluent use.
The meaning is usually clear from context, but distinguishing it from similar verbs requires good comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Separable Verbs
'Opgeven' is a separable verb. In the present and past tense, the prefix 'op' separates from the verb and moves to the end of the clause. Example: 'Ik geef het op.' (I give it up.) vs. 'Hij gaf het op.' (He gave it up.) In infinitive clauses, it stays together: 'om op te geven'.
Modal Verbs
Modal verbs like 'willen' (want), 'kunnen' (can), 'moeten' (must), 'zullen' (will), 'mogen' (may) are followed by the infinitive form of the main verb. Example: 'Ik wil niet opgeven.' (I don't want to give up.)
Perfect Tense
The perfect tense is formed with the auxiliary verb 'hebben' or 'zijn' and the past participle. The past participle of 'opgeven' is 'opgegeven'. Example: 'Hij heeft het opgegeven.' (He has given it up.)
Imperative Mood
The imperative form is used for commands. For 'opgeven', the singular imperative is 'geef op!' (give up!) and the plural is 'geeft op!' (give up!). The negative imperative is 'geef niet op!' (don't give up!).
Infinitive Clauses
When 'opgeven' is used as an infinitive, often after another verb or in subordinate clauses, it is typically preceded by 'om te'. Example: 'Het is belangrijk om niet op te geven.' (It is important not to give up.)
Examples by Level
Ik geef op.
I give up.
Simple present tense, first person singular.
Niet opgeven!
Don't give up!
Imperative, negative.
Hij geeft op.
He gives up.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
Ze geeft op.
She gives up.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
Wij geven op.
We give up.
Simple present tense, first person plural.
Jullie geven op.
You all give up.
Simple present tense, second person plural.
Zij geven op.
They give up.
Simple present tense, third person plural.
Ik geef het op.
I give it up.
Simple present tense with direct object pronoun.
Hij wilde de wedstrijd opgeven.
He wanted to give up the match.
Past tense auxiliary 'wilde' + infinitive 'opgeven'.
Geef de hoop niet op!
Don't give up hope!
Imperative negative + direct object 'de hoop'.
Na de val gaf ze op.
After the fall, she gave up.
Simple past tense, separable verb 'opgeven'.
Het is moeilijk, maar ik geef niet op.
It's difficult, but I won't give up.
Present tense + negative 'niet opgeven'.
Ze hebben geprobeerd, maar ze gaven het op.
They tried, but they gave it up.
Perfect tense 'hebben geprobeerd' + simple past tense 'gaven het op'.
Moeten we dit nu opgeven?
Do we have to give this up now?
Modal verb 'moeten' + infinitive 'opgeven'.
Ik heb mijn plan opgegeven.
I have given up my plan.
Perfect tense with past participle 'opgegeven'.
Hij besloot op te geven.
He decided to give up.
Past tense 'besloot' + infinitive clause 'op te geven'.
Ondanks de pijn, weigerde hij op te geven.
Despite the pain, he refused to give up.
Verb 'weigeren' + infinitive clause 'op te geven'.
Ze had de moed bijna opgegeven.
She had almost given up hope.
Perfect tense with 'bijna' and past participle 'opgegeven'.
Het is beter om te stoppen dan om op te geven.
It is better to stop than to give up.
Comparison using infinitives 'stoppen' and 'op te geven'.
Hij gaf zijn droom op voor zijn familie.
He gave up his dream for his family.
Simple past tense, separable verb 'opgeven' with prepositional phrase.
De politicus kon zijn standpunt niet opgeven.
The politician could not give up his stance.
Modal verb 'kon' + negation 'niet' + infinitive 'opgeven'.
Na jaren van proberen, gaf hij het project op.
After years of trying, he gave up the project.
Adverbial phrase 'Na jaren van proberen' + simple past tense 'gaf het project op'.
Ze heeft haar hobby nooit opgegeven.
She has never given up her hobby.
Perfect tense with negation 'nooit' and past participle 'opgegeven'.
We mogen de hoop niet opgeven, ook al is het moeilijk.
We must not give up hope, even though it is difficult.
Modal verb 'mogen' + negation 'niet' + infinitive 'opgeven'.
Hij overwoog zijn carrière op te geven vanwege de stress.
He considered giving up his career due to the stress.
Verb 'overwoog' + infinitive clause 'op te geven'.
De coach moedigde het team aan om niet op te geven, zelfs niet bij een achterstand.
The coach encouraged the team not to give up, even with a deficit.
Verb 'moedigde aan' + infinitive clause 'niet op te geven'.
Ondanks de druk van buitenaf, gaf ze haar principes niet op.
Despite external pressure, she did not give up her principles.
Simple past tense, separable verb 'opgeven' with negation.
De ouderen gaven hun verzet tegen de veranderingen op.
The elderly gave up their resistance to the changes.
Simple past tense, separable verb 'opgeven' with direct object.
Hij heeft het plan om te emigreren opgegeven vanwege familieverplichtingen.
He has given up the plan to emigrate due to family obligations.
Perfect tense with past participle 'opgegeven' and infinitive clause.
Het is frustrerend als je het gevoel hebt dat je moet opgeven.
It is frustrating when you feel like you have to give up.
Modal verb 'moeten' + infinitive 'opgeven'.
Zij gaf de hoop op dat hij ooit zou veranderen.
She gave up hope that he would ever change.
Simple past tense 'gaf op' + subordinate clause.
De kunstenaar besloot zijn commerciële werk op te geven om zich op zijn passie te richten.
The artist decided to give up his commercial work to focus on his passion.
Verb 'besloot' + infinitive clause 'op te geven' + purpose clause.
Na lang beraad besloot de directie het controversiële project op te geven.
After much deliberation, the management decided to give up the controversial project.
Complex sentence structure with introductory phrase and infinitive clause.
Het is de vraag of hij zijn principes ooit zal opgeven, zelfs onder extreme druk.
It is questionable whether he will ever give up his principles, even under extreme pressure.
Subordinate clause starting with 'of' + future tense 'zal opgeven'.
De activisten weigerden hun strijd voor het milieu op te geven, ondanks de juridische tegenslagen.
The activists refused to give up their fight for the environment, despite legal setbacks.
Verb 'weigerden' + infinitive clause 'op te geven' + concessive clause.
Hij had de illusie opgegeven dat hij de situatie nog kon beïnvloeden.
He had given up the illusion that he could still influence the situation.
Perfect tense with past participle 'opgegeven' + subordinate clause expressing the content of the illusion.
Men mag niet te snel opgeven wanneer men geconfronteerd wordt met tegenspoed.
One should not give up too quickly when confronted with adversity.
Impersonal subject 'Men' + modal verb 'mag' + negation 'niet' + infinitive clause.
Na jaren van onderzoek, leek het team genoodzaakt om het project op te geven.
After years of research, the team seemed compelled to give up the project.
Introductory phrase + verb 'leek genoodzaakt' + infinitive clause 'op te geven'.
Zij heeft haar ambitie om te winnen nooit opgegeven, zelfs niet na de teleurstelling.
She has never given up her ambition to win, not even after the disappointment.
Perfect tense with negation 'nooit' + infinitive clause + concessive phrase.
Het is cruciaal om niet op te geven in het aangezicht van overweldigende uitdagingen.
It is crucial not to give up in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Adjective 'cruciaal' + infinitive clause 'niet op te geven' + prepositional phrase.
De reputatie van het bedrijf leek onherstelbaar beschadigd, waardoor het management genoodzaakt was bepaalde activiteiten op te geven.
The company's reputation seemed irreparably damaged, forcing management to give up certain activities.
Complex sentence with participial phrase and infinitive clause.
Men kan zich afvragen of het zinvol is om te blijven vechten wanneer alle hoop lijkt te zijn opgegeven.
One can wonder if it is meaningful to keep fighting when all hope seems to have been given up.
Impersonal subject 'Men' + subordinate clause with perfect passive infinitive.
Hoewel hij de politieke arena had verlaten, gaf hij zijn idealen niet op, maar zocht hij andere wegen om ze te realiseren.
Although he had left the political arena, he did not give up his ideals but sought other ways to realize them.
Concessive clause + past perfect + simple past tense with negation.
De strijd om onafhankelijkheid was lang en zwaar; velen voelden de verleiding om op te geven, maar de geest van verzet bleef leven.
The struggle for independence was long and arduous; many felt the temptation to give up, but the spirit of resistance lived on.
Compound sentence with semicolon, highlighting the temptation to give up.
Het is een dunne lijn tussen volharding en koppigheid; soms is het wijzer om een verloren zaak op te geven en je energie elders te besteden.
It is a fine line between perseverance and stubbornness; sometimes it is wiser to give up a lost cause and direct your energy elsewhere.
Complex sentence with semicolon and infinitive clause.
De erfgenaam, geconfronteerd met onoverkomelijke schulden, zag zich genoodzaakt zijn recht op de erfenis op te geven.
The heir, faced with insurmountable debts, saw himself compelled to give up his right to the inheritance.
Participial phrase + verb 'zag zich genoodzaakt' + infinitive clause.
De wetenschapper, na jaren van vruchteloos onderzoek, overwoog serieus om zijn levenswerk op te geven.
The scientist, after years of fruitless research, seriously considered giving up his life's work.
Introductory participial phrase + verb 'overwoog' + adverb 'serieus' + infinitive clause.
Het is een kenmerk van ware wijsheid om te weten wanneer men moet volharden en wanneer men een verloren strijd moet opgeven.
It is a mark of true wisdom to know when one must persevere and when one must give up a lost battle.
Complex sentence with two infinitive clauses functioning as objects of 'weten'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— A strong encouragement to keep trying and not quit.
Als het moeilijk wordt, onthoud dan: niet opgeven!
— To lose all optimism or belief that something good will happen.
Na zoveel tegenslagen begonnen ze de hoop op te geven.
— A declaration of determination, stating that quitting is not an acceptable choice.
Voor deze marathon geldt: opgeven is geen optie.
— He/she quit or stopped trying.
Het project was te complex, dus hij gaf het op.
— To give up doing something (often used with verbs of action).
Hij gaf op om te proberen haar te overtuigen.
— He/she registered or signed up (for an event, course, etc. - different meaning).
Ze gaf zich op voor de cursus fotografie.
— To relinquish or waive a right.
Hij besloot het opgeven van zijn recht op compensatie.
— A rhetorical question expressing surprise or disbelief if someone is considering quitting.
Je hebt al zoveel geïnvesteerd, je geeft het toch niet op?
Often Confused With
'Geven' is the general verb 'to give'. 'Opgeven' is specific to quitting or ceasing effort. You 'geven' a gift, but you 'opgeven' a race if you stop.
'Afgeven' means to hand over, emit, or give off. It's not related to quitting. For example, 'De fabriek geeft rook af.' (The factory emits smoke.)
This is a homonym. 'Opgeven' also means to register or report information. Context is crucial to distinguish between 'to quit' and 'to register'.
Idioms & Expressions
— To give up, to admit defeat, to quit, often used when facing a difficult challenge.
Na de zoveelste tegenslag voelde hij dat hij de handdoek in de ring moest gooien.
Informal— To give up, to quit, to call it a day. It implies stopping work or an activity.
De lange werkdagen waren te veel, dus hij gaf er de brui aan.
Informal— To become discouraged, to give up hope, to lose spirit. It's closely related to giving up.
Nadat zijn plan mislukte, liet hij het hoofd hangen en gaf hij op.
Neutral— To refuse to back down or give up, to be stubborn in one's position or effort.
Ondanks de kritiek wist ze van geen wijken en gaf ze haar project niet op.
Neutral— Something that seems endless or goes on forever, often implying a tedious or difficult task that one might want to give up on.
Het repareren van die oude auto voelde als een gebed zonder end, maar hij gaf niet op.
Neutral— To lose one's courage or spirit, to become disheartened to the point of wanting to quit.
Toen de resultaten tegenvielen, gaven ze de moed op.
Neutral— Similar to 'de handdoek in de ring gooien', meaning to give up on something specific.
Na een jaar proberen in die stad, gooide hij de handdoek erin.
Informal— To return defeated or having failed, often after trying something and ultimately giving up.
Hij ging weg om zijn fortuin te maken, maar kwam na een jaar met hangende pootjes terug, hij had het opgegeven.
Informal— To stop fighting or struggling, to give up the effort.
De partijen besloten de strijd te staken en tot een compromis te komen.
Neutral— A fact that has already happened and cannot be changed. Sometimes accepting this leads to giving up further efforts.
De sluiting van de fabriek was een voldongen feit; de werknemers moesten hun hoop op een doorstart opgeven.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both 'stoppen' and 'opgeven' can mean to stop an activity.
'Stoppen' is a general term for ceasing an action. 'Opgeven' specifically implies ceasing an effort due to difficulty, lack of success, or a decision to quit.
'Hij stopte met fietsen.' (He stopped cycling - maybe he arrived or took a break.) vs. 'Hij gaf het fietsen op.' (He gave up cycling - implying it was too hard or he didn't like it anymore.)
Both can refer to ending something.
'Beëindigen' is more formal and typically used for contracts, projects, or official processes. 'Opgeven' is more personal and relates to ceasing one's own effort or pursuit.
'De overeenkomst werd beëindigd.' (The agreement was terminated.) vs. 'Hij gaf zijn pogingen op.' (He gave up his attempts.)
Both imply an acceptance of a situation that leads to cessation of effort.
'Resignereren' implies a passive acceptance of fate or an unavoidable outcome, often with a sense of melancholy or defeat. 'Opgeven' is more about actively deciding to stop trying.
'Hij moest resignereren voor de onvermijdelijke sluiting.' (He had to resign himself to the inevitable closure.) vs. 'Hij gaf de strijd op.' (He gave up the fight.)
Both can mean to let go of something.
'Loslaten' often refers to emotional or mental release, letting go of attachments, worries, or desires. 'Opgeven' is more about ceasing an active pursuit or endeavor.
'Ze moest haar angst loslaten.' (She had to let go of her fear.) vs. 'Ze gaf haar ambitie op.' (She gave up her ambition.)
It's the exact same spelling and pronunciation.
This is a case of homonymy. 'Opgeven' can mean 'to quit/give up' or 'to register/report'. The meaning is entirely determined by context. If someone is asked to 'geef uw gegevens op', they are being asked to provide their details, not to quit.
'Je moet je naam opgeven.' (You must give/register your name.) vs. 'Ik geef het op.' (I'm giving it up/quitting.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + opgeven.
Ik geef op.
Subject + wilde/moest + opgeven.
Hij wilde opgeven.
Subject + opgeven + object.
Ze gaf haar droom op.
Subject + niet + opgeven.
Ik geef niet op.
Subject + hebben/zijn + opgegeven.
Hij heeft het opgegeven.
Subject + besloot + op te geven.
Ze besloot op te geven.
Subject + weigerde + op te geven.
De atleet weigerde op te geven.
Introductory phrase + Subject + genoodzaakt + op te geven.
Gedwongen door de omstandigheden, zag hij zich genoodzaakt op te geven.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
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Confusing 'opgeven' (to quit) with 'opgeven' (to register).
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The meaning depends entirely on context. 'Ik geef het op' (I'm quitting) vs. 'Ik geef mijn naam op' (I'm registering my name).
Learners sometimes struggle with the homonym. Always check the surrounding words. If it's about providing information, it means 'register'. If it's about ceasing effort, it means 'quit'.
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Incorrect verb separation.
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In main clauses (present/past tense): 'Hij geeft het op.' In infinitive clauses: 'Hij wil het niet opgeven.'
'Opgeven' is a separable verb. The prefix 'op' separates in main clauses but stays attached in infinitive clauses. Incorrect separation can lead to grammatically incorrect sentences.
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Using 'opgeven' where 'stoppen' is more appropriate.
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'Hij stopte met fietsen.' (He stopped cycling - neutral) vs. 'Hij gaf het fietsen op.' (He gave up cycling - implies difficulty/quitting).
'Stoppen' is general stopping. 'Opgeven' implies stopping due to difficulty or failure. Using 'opgeven' when simply pausing or finishing is incorrect.
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Mispronouncing the 'g'.
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The 'g' in 'opgeven' is a guttural sound, like the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch', not like the English 'g' in 'go'.
Incorrect pronunciation of the 'g' can make the word sound unnatural or difficult to understand for native speakers.
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Confusing 'opgeven' with 'geven' or 'afgeven'.
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'Geven' (to give - general) and 'afgeven' (to hand over/emit) have different meanings. 'Opgeven' is specifically for quitting or registering.
Direct translation from English 'give up' can lead to using the wrong Dutch verb. 'Opgeven' has a specific meaning that cannot be replaced by 'geven' or 'afgeven' in the context of quitting.
Tips
Distinguish Meanings
Always pay attention to the context when you encounter 'opgeven'. It can mean 'to quit' or 'to register/report'. If someone is being asked to provide information, it's the latter. If they are talking about a challenge or struggle, it's the former.
Separable Verb Practice
Practice using 'opgeven' as a separable verb in different sentence structures. Try forming sentences with the present tense, past tense, and infinitive clauses to solidify your understanding of when the prefix 'op' separates.
Use in Motivational Sentences
The phrase 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!) is very common and impactful. Try to incorporate 'opgeven' into sentences about perseverance, challenges, and personal goals to remember its primary meaning.
Master the 'G'
The Dutch 'g' sound in 'opgeven' can be tricky. Practice it by trying to make a sound from the back of your throat, similar to clearing your throat gently. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them.
Compare with 'Stoppen'
Understand the difference between 'stoppen' (to stop) and 'opgeven' (to give up). 'Stoppen' is general, while 'opgeven' implies ceasing effort due to difficulty. Use this distinction when choosing the correct verb.
Learn Related Idioms
Familiarize yourself with idioms like 'de handdoek in de ring gooien' (to throw in the towel) and 'er de brui aan geven' (to quit), which are informal synonyms for 'opgeven'.
Write Your Own Examples
Create your own sentences using 'opgeven' in different contexts. Write about a time you wanted to give up, or a time you encouraged someone not to give up. This active recall strengthens memory.
Listen for Context
When listening to Dutch audio (podcasts, movies, conversations), try to identify 'opgeven' and determine its meaning based on the surrounding words and the overall situation. This will improve your comprehension.
Understand Cultural Values
Recognize that in Dutch culture, perseverance is valued. While 'opgeven' is a necessary word, the idea of 'niet opgeven' is often celebrated. Understanding this cultural nuance can help you use the word more appropriately.
Explore Alternatives
Learn synonyms and related terms like 'doorzetten' (to persevere) and 'resignereren' (to resign oneself). Knowing these alternatives will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you're playing a difficult game. You get so frustrated that you throw your controller UP and say, 'I give UP!'. The 'up' sound in 'up' (English) can remind you of the 'op' in 'opgeven'.
Visual Association
Picture a person standing at the top of a very steep mountain, looking exhausted. They are holding a sign that says 'I QUIT' and are about to turn back down. The 'op' sound could be associated with the 'up' direction of the mountain they are leaving.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a time you wanted to give up on something, but didn't. Use the word 'opgeven' in your description, explaining why you felt like you wanted to 'opgeven' but ultimately chose not to.
Word Origin
The verb 'opgeven' is a compound verb formed from the prefix 'op-' and the verb 'geven'. 'Geven' itself is a very old Germanic word, tracing back to Proto-Germanic *gebaną and Proto-Indo-European *ghabh-. The prefix 'op-' in this context signifies 'up' or 'away', suggesting an action of giving something up or away.
Original meaning: The literal meaning of 'opgeven' was 'to give up' or 'to yield'. This has evolved to encompass the more abstract idea of ceasing effort or quitting.
GermanicCultural Context
The phrase 'opgeven' can be sensitive when referring to giving up one's life. In such grave contexts, it should be used with extreme caution and sensitivity, and often alternative phrasing is preferred.
While English has 'give up', the Dutch 'opgeven' can sometimes feel more definitive or carry a slightly stronger sense of finality in certain contexts. The nuance of 'opgeven' meaning 'to register' is entirely absent in English 'give up'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Sports and physical challenges
- Hij gaf op wegens een blessure.
- Geef niet op, je kunt het!
- Ze wilde de marathon opgeven.
Academic studies and work
- Ik geef dit vak op.
- Hij gaf zijn baan op.
- Het is moeilijk, dus ik geef het op.
Personal goals and habits
- Ze gaf het roken op.
- Hij gaf zijn droom op.
- Ik geef het op met dit recept.
Figurative language and motivation
- Geef de hoop niet op!
- Opgeven is geen optie.
- Hij gaf zijn principes niet op.
Formal/Official contexts (different meaning)
- U moet uw gegevens opgeven.
- Zich opgeven voor een cursus.
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever felt like giving up on something important? What was it and why?"
"What's the best advice you've ever received about not giving up?"
"When is it okay to give up on a goal?"
"Can you think of a time someone refused to give up and achieved something amazing?"
"What does the phrase 'never give up' mean to you?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time you almost gave up but persevered. What motivated you to keep going?
Consider a situation where you did give up. What were the consequences, and would you have done anything differently?
Write about a character from a book or movie who embodies the spirit of 'not giving up'. What lessons can we learn from them?
Imagine you are advising someone who is on the verge of giving up on their dreams. What would you say to encourage them?
Explore the difference between wisely letting go of something and giving up out of fear or laziness. How can you tell the difference?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe primary meaning of 'opgeven' is to stop trying, to quit, or to surrender, usually because a task or situation has become too difficult or unsuccessful. For example, 'Hij gaf de race op.' (He gave up the race.)
Yes, 'opgeven' also means 'to register' or 'to report' information. For instance, 'Je moet je gegevens opgeven.' (You must provide your details.) The context is crucial to distinguish between these two meanings.
To express determination, you often use the negative form 'niet opgeven' (not give up). A common encouraging phrase is 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!). For example, 'Ondanks de moeilijkheden, gaf hij niet op.' (Despite the difficulties, he did not give up.)
The past tense of 'opgeven' is 'gaf op' (gave up). The past participle is 'opgegeven' (given up). Examples: 'Hij gaf de hoop op.' (He gave up hope.) 'Hij heeft het opgegeven.' (He has given it up.)
Yes, 'opgeven' is a separable verb. This means the prefix 'op' separates from the verb in certain sentence structures. In the present and past tense, 'op' goes to the end of the clause: 'Ik geef het op.' (I give it up.) 'Hij gaf het op.' (He gave it up.) In infinitive clauses, it stays together: 'om op te geven'.
Common phrases include 'de hoop opgeven' (to give up hope), 'niet opgeven' (not give up), and informal idioms like 'de handdoek in de ring gooien' (to throw in the towel).
'Stoppen' is a general term for stopping an action. 'Opgeven' specifically implies stopping due to difficulty or failure, meaning to quit or give up. 'Hij stopte met rennen' (He stopped running) is neutral, while 'Hij gaf het rennen op' (He gave up running) implies he quit because it was too hard.
While 'opgeven' is common in everyday language, in very formal or legal contexts, other verbs like 'beëindigen' (to terminate) or 'verzaakten' (to renounce) might be more appropriate, depending on the nuance.
The pronunciation is roughly /ˈɔpˌɣeːvən/. The stress is on the first syllable 'op', and the 'g' is a guttural sound, similar to the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch'.
Yes, common antonyms and related concepts include 'doorzetten' (to persevere), 'volharden' (to persist), and the phrase 'niet opgeven' (not give up).
Test Yourself 10 questions
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Summary
The Dutch verb 'opgeven' signifies the act of ceasing an effort or activity, commonly translated as 'to give up' or 'to quit'. It is frequently used in contexts involving challenges, struggles, or difficult pursuits, such as in sports, academics, or personal ambitions. The phrase 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!) is a powerful expression of determination. However, it's important to note that 'opgeven' also has a distinct meaning of 'to register' or 'to report', making context essential for correct understanding.
- Meaning: To stop trying, quit, or surrender.
- Usage: Common in sports, studies, and personal goals.
- Key phrase: 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!).
- Context is crucial: Can also mean to register/report.
Distinguish Meanings
Always pay attention to the context when you encounter 'opgeven'. It can mean 'to quit' or 'to register/report'. If someone is being asked to provide information, it's the latter. If they are talking about a challenge or struggle, it's the former.
Separable Verb Practice
Practice using 'opgeven' as a separable verb in different sentence structures. Try forming sentences with the present tense, past tense, and infinitive clauses to solidify your understanding of when the prefix 'op' separates.
Use in Motivational Sentences
The phrase 'Niet opgeven!' (Don't give up!) is very common and impactful. Try to incorporate 'opgeven' into sentences about perseverance, challenges, and personal goals to remember its primary meaning.
Master the 'G'
The Dutch 'g' sound in 'opgeven' can be tricky. Practice it by trying to make a sound from the back of your throat, similar to clearing your throat gently. Listen to native speakers and try to imitate them.
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