Submit: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
December 3, 2024

1. Submit (verb): To present for consideration, acceptance, or approval.
2. Submit (verb): To yield or defer to someone else's judgment, authority, or power.

The word "submit" primarily means to yield or surrender to a superior force, authority, or will. It can also mean to present or offer something, such as a proposal or an application, for consideration or approval. In a broader sense, "submit" implies a willingness to accept or comply with a particular situation or decision. To gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and usage of "submit", it's essential to explore its various meanings and contexts.

"Submit" Definition: What Does "Submit" Mean?

The verb "submit" is foundational in various interactions, from formal submissions in a professional environment to interpersonal dynamics where yielding to another's preferences is required.

Definition of "Submit": Offer for Review

"Submit" primarily involves offering something, such as a proposal, application, or piece of work, for review and judgment by another. This form is standard in educational, professional, and creative fields, where feedback and approval are sought.

Definition of "Submit": Yield Control

In another sense, "submit" refers to yielding or surrendering to another's authority or control, often used in legal, religious, or hierarchical settings. This usage underscores a power dynamic where one party accedes to the control or demands of another.

Parts of Speech

As a verb, "submit" functions as an action word that conveys the idea of giving in or yielding to something or someone. In uncommon usage, "submit" can also be used as a noun, referring to the act of submitting or the state of being submissive. For instance, "The submit of the rebel forces marked the end of the war."

How to Pronounce "Submit"?

To pronounce "submit" correctly, start by saying "sub" with a short "u" sound, followed by "mit" with a short "i" sound. Put them together, and you get "SUB-mit". Practice saying it a few times to get the hang of it.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /'sʌb-mɪt/

Synonyms of "Submit": Other Ways to Say "Submit"

Exploring synonyms of "submit" reveals its contextual flexibility:

  • Present
  • Propose
  • Yield
  • Surrender
  • Hand in
  • Deliver
  • Concede

Antonyms of "Submit": Other Ways to Say "Submit"

Antonyms highlight opposition to the concept of submission:

  • Resist
  • Defy
  • Withhold
  • Disobey
  • Refuse

Examples of "Submit" in a Sentence

The following examples illustrate the diverse uses of "submit" in sentences:

1. Please submit your application by Friday.
2. He would not submit to intimidation.
3. You must submit your thesis by the end of the semester.
4. She submitted herself to the rules of the game.
5. The committee will submit its final report tomorrow.
6. Employees are asked to submit their feedback after the training.
7. They refused to submit to the new regulations.
8. The rebels were forced to submit.
9. All documents must be submitted electronically.
10. The court required him to submit evidence.

Frequency of Use

According to Google's Ngram Viewer, which tracks the frequency of words in books over time, the usage of "submit" has remained relatively consistent since the 1800s, with a slight increase in usage in the mid-1900s. This suggests that "submit" is a commonly used word in everyday language, particularly in formal or professional settings.

Variants of "Submit"

While "submit" itself is straightforward, its variants reflect its adaptability and frequency of use in various contexts.

Understanding these variants helps in grasping the subtle differences in how the term can be employed:

1. Submitted: The past tense of "submit," often used to indicate that an action has been completed.
2. Submitting: The present participle of "submit," used to describe the ongoing process of submission.
3. Submittal: A noun form that refers to the act of submitting something or the item that has been submitted.
4. Submitter: A noun referring to the person who submits something.

Related Terms to "Submit"

The understanding of "submit" is enriched by recognizing related terms that reflect similar themes or are often used in conjunction with "submit":

1. Compliance
2. Submission
3. Obedience
4. Concession
5. Acquiescence
6. Conformity
7. Surrender
8. Yielding
9. Consent
10. Assent

Etymology: History and Origins of "Submit"

The word "submit" comes from the Latin "submittere," which means "to yield or surrender". This Latin term is a combination of "sub" (under) and "mittere" (to send or put). The word "submit" first appeared in the 14th century and has been used in various contexts throughout history. For example, in medieval times, a knight might submit to the authority of a king or lord. In modern times, an employee might submit a proposal to their manager for approval.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Submit"

Derivatives and compounds related to "submit" include:

1. Submittable: suitable to be submitted.
2. Submission: the act of submitting; a document that has been submitted.
3. Submissive: inclined or ready to submit; unresistingly or humbly obedient.

Common Misspellings of "Submit"

Common errors in spelling "submit" often involve:

1. Submitt
2. Submet
3. Sumit
4. Sumbit

10 Idioms Similar to "Submit"

Idioms that convey similar notions of submission or compliance:

1. Bend the knee
2. Toe the line
3. Roll over
4. Lay down arms
5. Give in
6. Hold up the white flag
7. Play ball
8. Go with the flow
9. Follow the crowd
10. Cave in

10 Common Questions About "Submit"

1. What does it mean to "submit" a document?

It refers to the act of presenting a document for review or consideration.

2. Can "submit" be used in a personal context?

Yes, one might "submit" to another's request or decision in a personal relationship.

3. Is "submit" always formal?

No, while often formal, it can be used informally to describe yielding in casual conversations.

4. What is the opposite of "submit"?

Antonyms include resist, defy, and withhold.

5. How do you teach students to use "submit"?

Through examples and practice in sentences, especially in academic settings.

6. What are some synonyms of "submit"?

Synonyms include present, propose, and surrender.

7. What is a derivative of "submit"?

One derivative is "submission," referring to the act or an instance of submitting.

8. How can "submit" be used in a legal context?

In legal terms, submitting often refers to presenting documents or evidence in court.

9. Can "submit" have a positive connotation?

Yes, in contexts like submitting a winning proposal or idea, it has a positive connotation.

10. Is there an idiom that uses "submit"?

While "submit" itself isn't typically used in idioms, related expressions like "give in" or "play ball" convey similar meanings.

Conclusion

"Submit" serves as a multifaceted term that encapsulates both the act of presenting something for consideration and the act of yielding to authority or power. The use of "submit" in everyday language not only enriches one's vocabulary but also bolsters their understanding of its significance in fostering clear and effective communication.

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