give-up the ghost

• Expression idiomatique signifiant cesser d'essayer de faire quelque chose parce que c'est trop difficile, ou (en parlant d'une machine ou d'un appareil) s'arrêter complètement et définitivement de fonctionner.

An idiomatic expression meaning to stop trying to do something because it is too difficult, or (of a machine or device) to stop working completely and permanently.

1. Stop working (machines)B2informal

   When a machine or device stops functioning permanently or completely.

   rendre l'âme (machine)

   • My old laptop finally gave up the ghost yesterday.
   • The car's engine gave up the ghost on the highway.
   • After ten years, the refrigerator gave up the ghost.

2. Die or pass awayB2informal

   A euphemistic way to say that a person or animal has died.

   rendre l'âme

   • The old dog gave up the ghost peacefully in his sleep.
   • After a long illness, he gave up the ghost last night.
   • The wounded bird gave up the ghost before the vet arrived.

3. Give up tryingC1informal

   To stop making an effort to achieve something; to abandon hope or effort.

   abandonner la partie

   • After several failed attempts, the team gave up the ghost on the project.
   • She gave up the ghost on trying to fix the relationship.
   • He gave up the ghost and admitted defeat.