call it quits

Idioms and Phrases

Stop working, abandon something, give up, as in John is calling it quits for now or This ground is far too stony for a garden so I'm calling it quits . This idiom comes from cry quits , dating from the 1600s and meaning “declare even” or “get even.” The verb call was substituted in the late 1800s. Also see call it a day .

Example Sentences

One of the greatest unknowns remains the question of how many storm-weary operations will simply call it quits.

From Salon

The “Little Mermaid” star and the “I’m Geekin” rapper have called it quits after two years of dating and recently welcoming a baby boy.

From Los Angeles Times

In April 2023, Yung Miami said she and Combs called it quits but told The Cut that she and her ex-boyfriend remained good friends.

From Los Angeles Times

I called it quits after a hard face-plant off the surfboard and into the wet sand.

From Los Angeles Times

Rapper Cardi B and Migos’ Offset have called it quits, breaking up after being married for six years and having two children together.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abandon
• break off
• cease
• conclude
• discontinue
• drop
• give up
• halt
• leave
• retire
• suspend
• terminate
• withdraw