Listening Prompts

Listen to the following passage - Answer the question - View PIE for more information

Throwing in the Towel

Question: What does "throwing in the towel" mean in this story?

PIE Information:

  1. Pronunciation

    • Listen to the audio and repeat or use it as a guide while you read. Focus on “throwing in the towel” and practice its rhythm.

  2. Intonation

    • Sentence: “Finally, I had to throw in the towel.”

    • Intonation variations:

      • “Finally, I had to throw in the towel.” (Stressing I emphasizes personal struggle.)

      • “Finally, I had to throw in the towel.” (Stressing throw highlights the act of giving up.)

      • “Finally, I had to throw in the towel.” (Stressing towel emphasizes the finality of quitting.)

  3. Expression

    • Idiom: Throwing in the towel means giving up or admitting defeat.

    • Use this idiom: When you stop trying after repeated efforts.