The word “submit” is a commonly used verb in English with multiple meanings depending on the context. It can refer to presenting something for approval yielding to authority or accepting a situation without resistance.
This topic explores the definition of “submit” its different meanings common usage in various contexts and examples of how it is used in everyday life.
Definition of Submit
What Does “Submit” Mean?
The verb “submit” generally means:
- To present or propose something for consideration or approval.
- To yield or surrender to a person authority or rule.
- To accept a situation or condition without resistance.
Etymology of “Submit”
The word “submit” comes from the Latin word submissus which is the past participle of submittere. This Latin term is made up of sub- (meaning “under”) and mittere (meaning “to send or put”) which together suggest the idea of sending something under someone’s authority or control.
Different Meanings of Submit
1. Submit as Presenting Something
One of the most common meanings of “submit” is to present something for consideration review or approval. This usage is common in academic professional and legal settings.
Examples:
- “Students must submit their assignments by the end of the week.”
- “The company submitted a proposal for the new project.”
2. Submit as Yielding to Authority
Another meaning of “submit” is to accept the authority of someone else. This is often used in legal military or hierarchical situations.
Examples:
- “The losing side in the battle had no choice but to submit.”
- “He refused to submit to unfair demands from his boss.”
3. Submit as Accepting a Situation
“Submit” can also mean accepting something unwillingly but without resistance. This is often used in discussions about control power or personal struggles.
Examples:
- “She submitted to her fate and accepted the consequences.”
- “They had no choice but to submit to the harsh conditions.”
How “Submit” Is Used in Everyday Language
1. In Education and Work
Students and professionals often use “submit” when turning in assignments applications or reports.
Example:
- “Please submit your resume before the deadline.”
2. In Legal and Official Matters
Submitting documents petitions or evidence is common in legal and governmental processes.
Example:
- “The lawyer submitted new evidence to the court.”
3. In Relationships and Social Interactions
The word can describe situations where someone yields to another’s authority or requests.
Example:
- “He submitted to his parents’ decision even though he disagreed.”
4. In Sports and Competitions
In combat sports like wrestling or mixed martial arts (MMA) “submit” is used when a fighter concedes defeat.
Example:
- “The fighter submitted after being caught in a chokehold.”
Common Synonyms for Submit
If you want to use alternative words with similar meanings consider these synonyms:
For Presenting Something:
- Turn in
- Send
- Offer
- Deliver
For Yielding to Authority:
- Surrender
- Obey
- Comply
- Give in
For Accepting a Situation:
- Resign (oneself) to
- Accept
- Concede
- Succumb
Examples of “Submit” in Different Contexts
1. Academic Context
- “The professor asked students to submit their essays online.”
2. Business and Work
- “All employees must submit their monthly reports by Friday.”
3. Legal and Governmental Use
- “The citizen submitted a request for a passport renewal.”
4. Sports and Competition
- “The athlete refused to submit and continued fighting until the end.”
5. Personal and Social Situations
- “He submitted to his emotions and broke down in tears.”
Cultural Differences in Using “Submit”
The meaning of “submit” can vary slightly depending on the region:
- In the U.S. and Canada “submit” is mostly used in academic business and legal contexts.
- In the U.K. the word is commonly used in formal settings and in discussions about monarchy or governance.
- In some Asian cultures “submit” is often associated with respect and obedience in hierarchical relationships.
How to Use “Submit” Correctly
1. When Presenting Documents or Requests
✔ “Please submit your application by email.”
✔ “He submitted his visa application last week.”
❌ Avoid using “submit” when referring to casual conversations or informal exchanges. Instead use “send” or “hand in.”
2. When Talking About Yielding to Authority
✔ “The army was forced to submit after days of fighting.”
✔ “She refused to submit to the dictator’s rule.”
❌ In personal relationships using “submit” can sound too strong. Instead use words like “compromise” or “agree.”
3. When Accepting an Unpleasant Reality
✔ “He submitted to the reality of his situation and moved on.”
✔ “She finally submitted to the fact that change was necessary.”
❌ Avoid using “submit” when discussing positive or voluntary actions. Instead use “accept” or “embrace.”
The word “submit” has multiple meanings primarily related to presenting something yielding to authority or accepting a situation. It is a widely used term in education business law sports and personal relationships.
By understanding the different meanings and contexts of “submit” you can use it correctly and effectively in your conversations and writing.
