Which is correct:
"Give up on the idea" or "Give up the idea"?

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Give up on the idea

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when someone decides to abandon or stop believing in a particular idea or plan.

Examples:

  • I think it's time to give up on the idea of starting a business together.
  • Don't give up on the idea of pursuing your dreams.
  • She refused to give up on the idea of finding her lost dog.

Alternatives:

  • abandon the idea
  • stop believing in the idea
  • let go of the idea
  • relinquish the idea
  • discard the idea

Give up the idea

This phrase is correct but less common in English.

This phrase is used when someone is asked to relinquish or let go of a specific idea or plan.

Examples:

  • You need to give up the idea of going on vacation this year.
  • I had to give up the idea of buying a new car due to financial constraints.

Alternatives:

  • relinquish the idea
  • let go of the idea
  • abandon the idea
  • discard the idea
  • forget about the idea
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Give up on the idea' is more commonly used when someone decides to abandon or stop believing in a particular idea or plan. On the other hand, 'Give up the idea' is less common and is used when someone is asked to relinquish or let go of a specific idea or plan.

Last updated: March 27, 2024

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