take a dive

• Неформальное выражение, означающее намеренно проиграть в соревновании или провалить что-либо, часто ради личной выгоды или чтобы обмануть других; также используется в прямом смысле для обозначения прыжка в воду головой вперёд.

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.

   Симулировать нокаут

   • 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.

   Намеренно провалить

   • 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.