Remember, simple memorization without context has only limited, short-term value for expanding your vocabulary. Do as many of the exercises below as you can to really get this word down.

First, let’s see if you already know this word:  

If your opponent in a chess match capitulates, what might he do? A) slow down B) celebrate C) snore D) congratulate you

Click the plus sign for a sample sentence.

Exercises: Do as may of the following as you like. The more you do, the better the chance this word will stick.

1. Put it in writing: Use capitulate in at least one original sentence. Write it out in a comment (extra points if it makes me laugh).

2. Antonyms: What might be an antonym for capitulate? (An antonym is a word with the opposite meaning.)

3. Make it real: General Lee capitulated to General Grant at Appomattox. List as many other examples of capitulation that you can. They may come from history, literature, sports, pop culture, or your own experience.

4. Get Artsy: Write a short story in which a character capitulates.

5. Use It: Take the use-it-or-lose-it challenge: Find a way to consciously use the word capitulate at least three times in conversation today. For example, tell your brother in the middle of a video game that he should just capitulate.