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copping out

VERB

abandon, quit

Synonyms

WEAK

back down back off back out backpedal desert dodge excuse give the slip have alibi rationalize renege renounce revoke skip use pretext withdraw

Antonyms

WEAK

be ready face ready take on

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The play earned O’Neill his second Pulitzer Prize for drama, but he fumed at the way critics accused him of copping out with what seemed to them a happy ending.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 15, 2025

"Clearly, they are copping out on this one."

From Salon • Mar. 30, 2022

I always feel like I’m copping out when I say “marriage counseling!” but I do think it’s your best chance for feeling accepted and understood and seen, regardless of outcome, in this scenario.

From Slate • May 31, 2019

“Without copping out, I think it’s fair to say that it would not be appropriate for me to comment” on the choice of Mr. Bannon.

From New York Times • Nov. 14, 2016

I was always drawing pictures and getting special treatment at school — showing off, copping out of other things.

From 100 New Yorkers of the 1970s by Millard, Max