Give somebody/something up as a bad job

usgb
phrase

To stop trying to do something because you believe it is too difficult or not worth doing.

After attempting to fix the computer for hours, he simply gave it up as a bad job.
Visual representation of "give somebody/something up as a bad job" - To stop trying to do something because you believe it is too difficult or not worth doing

Often appears as...

  • give it up as a bad job
  • give them up as a bad job

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "give somebody/something up as a bad job"
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Cultural Nuance

Primarily used in British English, may not be well understood by speakers of other English dialects.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
She tried to play the violin, but then gave it up as a bad job.
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Connotative Meaning

Implies a strong sense of frustration or disappointment with the unsuccessful task.

Illustration for Connotative Meaning
After years of failing to learn, he gave up his singing aspirations as a bad job.
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Informality

Used in informal contexts, not suitable for formal documents or business correspondence.

Illustration for Informality
I'm going to give up trying to fix this old car as a bad job.
Visual representation of the word "Give somebody/something up as a bad job"

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