take a dive

• Informeller Ausdruck für das absichtliche Verlieren in einem Wettkampf oder das absichtliche Scheitern, oft aus persönlichem Vorteil oder um andere zu täuschen; auch wörtlich für einen Kopfsprung ins Wasser verwendet.

An informal expression meaning to intentionally lose a competition or fail at something, often for personal gain or to deceive others; also used literally to mean jumping into water headfirst.

1. Pretend to be knocked outB2informal

   To deliberately fall down or lose a fight, especially in boxing or wrestling, to deceive the audience or officials.

   Einen Knockout vortäuschen

   • The boxer was accused of taking a dive in the third round.
   • He took a dive to make the match look more dramatic.
   • The referee suspected the fighter took a dive for money.

2. Fail deliberatelyB2informal

   To intentionally perform poorly or lose in a competition or business deal for personal gain.

   absichtlich verlieren

   • The company took a dive on the stock market after the scandal.
   • He took a dive in the final exam to avoid suspicion.
   • The actor took a dive in his performance to get out of the contract.