Definition of relent

relentverb

TUYỆT VỜI

/rɪˈlent//rɪˈlent/

The word "relent" originated from the Old French word "relenter," which meant to become tired, exhausted, or relaxed. The Middle English adaptation of this word was "relencen," which conveyed a similar meaning. The word's original usage was mostly used in describing the demeanor of a person, animal, or situation that was initially intense or committed, but eventually weakened or relaxed. Over time, the meaning of "relent" has evolved. As per recorded history, its meaning shifted to signify a reluctant cessation or a slowing down of a committed action or force. The first recorded use of the word in modern English was in the 14th century, where it signified a relaxation or easing of the soul or mind. Later, around the 16th century, it came to represent something breaking down or beginning to slow down because of reduced pressure or intensity. Currently, the word "relent" is commonly used in references to a reducing or slackening of a force of action, feeling, or activity; indicating a discontinuance, cessation, or decrease. Moreover, it may also signify a stopping or ceasing of anger or violence, implying forgiveness, mercy or clemency. In all, the word "relent" has transformed from depicting a relaxation or weariness to representing a halting or moderation of a dedicated behavior or characteristic.

Summary
type nội động từ
meaningbớt nghiêm khắc, trở nên thuần tính, dịu lại
meaningmủi lòng, động lòng thương
namespace

to finally agree to something after refusing

cuối cùng đồng ý với một cái gì đó sau khi từ chối

Example:
  • ‘Well, just for a little while then,’ she said, finally relenting.

    “Ừ, chỉ một lát thôi,” cô nói, cuối cùng cũng mủi lòng.

  • The government has relented on this issue.

    Chính phủ đã nhượng bộ về vấn đề này.

  • The rain poured down relentlessly for hours, soaking everything in its path.

    Trận mưa như trút nước kéo dài trong nhiều giờ, nhấn chìm mọi thứ trên đường đi.

  • The cold wind howled through the countryside, its relentless force causing trees to bend and branches to snap.

    Gió lạnh gào thét khắp vùng nông thôn, sức mạnh không ngừng của nó khiến cây cối cong queo và cành cây gãy.

  • She stared at the clock, which seemed to tick relentlessly, marking each second with a steady tick-tock.

    Cô nhìn chằm chằm vào chiếc đồng hồ, dường như nó đang tích tắc không ngừng nghỉ, đánh dấu từng giây bằng tiếng tích tắc đều đặn.

Related words and phrases

to become less determined, strong, etc.

trở nên ít quyết tâm hơn, mạnh mẽ hơn, v.v.

Example:
  • After two days the rain relented.

    Sau hai ngày mưa đã tạnh.

  • The police will not relent in their fight against crime.

    Cảnh sát sẽ không chùn bước trong cuộc chiến chống tội phạm.

  • The government considered making everybody pay the tax but relented.

    Chính phủ cân nhắc việc bắt mọi người phải nộp thuế nhưng đã nhượng bộ.