Pronunciation: [ɡˈɪvz wˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The phrase "gives way" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈɡɪvz weɪ/. This means that the first syllable "gives" is pronounced with a hard "g" and a short "i" sound, followed by "v" and "z". The second syllable "way" is pronounced with a long "a" sound and a soft "w" sound. Together, the phrase means to yield or surrender, often used in a physical sense like a road sign indicating a weak bridge or unstable ground.
The phrase "gives way" is an idiomatic expression that has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. In general, it refers to yielding, surrendering, or submitting to something or someone. It can describe physical or metaphorical actions.
In a physical sense, "gives way" refers to the act of collapsing, breaking, or crumbling under pressure or force. For instance, a bridge may give way if it cannot support a heavy load. Similarly, a weak structure might give way during an earthquake. This definition can also be applied to human capabilities, such as when someone's knees give way due to exhaustion or weakness.
Metaphorically, "gives way" illustrates the act of conceding or accepting defeat, often in a discussion or argument. When one person's viewpoint or opinion gives way to another, it means they are abandoning their own stance and accepting the opposing position. Furthermore, it can describe yielding to emotions or impulses, such as when someone's anger gives way to forgiveness or their fear gives way to courage.
Overall, the term "gives way" signifies surrender or submission in various contexts, whether physical or metaphorical. It implies a relinquishing of control, collapse under pressure, or conceding defeat. The exact meaning of "gives way" depends on the specific circumstances in which it is used.
The phrase "gives way" has its etymology rooted in Middle English and Old English.
The word "give" originates from the Old English verb "giefan" or "giefen", which means "to give, entrust or bestow". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "gebanan", meaning "to give", and can be traced back further to the Proto-Indo-European root word *gʰabʰ-, which conveys the same meaning.
The word "way" can be traced back to the Middle English noun "waie" or "way", which means "path, road, or route". It derives from the Old English term "weg", which shares similar meanings.
