The correct spelling of the phrase "cave into" is not always clear due to the different ways it can be pronounced. In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation can be transcribed as /keɪv/ + /ˈɪntuː/ or /keɪv/ + /ɪnˈtuː/. The first transcription indicates a two-syllable pronunciation of the word 'into,' while the second shows it as three syllables. The correct spelling depends on the speaker's preferred pronunciation, but both versions are commonly used in standard English.
Cave into is a phrasal verb that refers to giving in or yielding to pressure, demands, or influence. It is often used to describe a situation where someone surrenders their position, opinion, or resistance to a particular request, argument, or authority.
The term "cave into" implies a sense of weakness or capitulation. When a person caves into something, they are essentially renouncing their previous stance or decision due to external pressure or persuasion. This may occur when one is overwhelmed by the strength of opposing arguments or when they succumb to the persuasive tactics employed by others.
Caving into something can be seen as an act of compromise, abandoning one's original beliefs or intentions in order to reach a more agreeable or manageable outcome. It involves a change of mindset and often results from the realization that one's position is untenable, unsustainable, or ineffective.
The phrase "cave into" is frequently used in various contexts, such as negotiations, debates, or personal relationships. It can also be applied to situations where individuals are forced to give up their goals or ambitions due to external factors beyond their control.
In summary, "cave into" means to yield or surrender to pressure, demands, or influence, often resulting in a change of position, decision, or course of action.
The phrase "cave into" is derived from the verb "cave", which originally comes from the Latin word "cavus", meaning "hollow". It can be traced back to the late 18th century, where "cave" was used as a verb to describe the act of collapsing or falling in, especially when referring to caves or underground spaces. Over time, the expression "cave into" developed as a figurative extension, used to describe surrendering, giving in, or yielding to pressure or demands in a non-literal sense.