call it quits

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does call it quits mean? In what situations is call it quits used?

Meaning of "call it quits"

Meaning

The idiom 'call it quits' is used to indicate the end of an activity or relationship. It suggests that both parties involved have come to a mutual agreement and are no longer pursuidng the cause or idea. It can be used in a business context to suggest an end to the negotiations, or in a relationship suggesting that two people have decided to part ways.

Etymology

This phrase is believed to be derived from the traditional game of 'Quits' - a game that is typically played between two people where they take turns at flipping a coin, each person calling either 'heads' or 'tails'. If an agreement has been reached and both players call the same result, the game is ended and the other person is declared the winner. The phrase 'call it quits' is used to indicate the same agreement in other contexts.

Usage

The idiom 'call it quits' is commonly used to signify the end of a project, agreement or relationship. It is typically used in conversations when one person or party feels that the current issue has been resolved and there is no need to continue pursuing it. The phrase can also indicate that one person or party feels that the current situation no longer serves their interests and they are ready to move on.

Example Sentences

• After months of negotiations, the two companies finally called it quits and agreed to a deal.
• We had been having issues for a while, so we decided to call it quits and go our separate ways.
• He failed to meet the deadline so I told him it was time to call it quits.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.