expression, godan verb (-gu)
acknowledge defeat; admit inferiority; take one's hat off to someone
Idiomatic expression literally meaning 'to take off one's helmet'. Used when someone concedes superiority or acknowledges that they have been outdone, often in a competitive or argumentative context. Can be used both seriously and light-heartedly.
彼の知識には兜を脱ぐよ。
I have to take my hat off to his knowledge.
議論で完全に負けて
I was completely beaten in the argument and admitted defeat.
expression, godan verb (-gu)
give up; surrender; strike one's colors
Extended from the literal image of a warrior removing his helmet to signal surrender. Used when someone abandons resistance or yields in a conflict, competition, or stubborn stance.
長時間の交渉の末、相手が兜を脱いだ。
After long negotiations, the other party finally gave in.
彼はなかなか兜を脱がなかった。
He wouldn't surrender easily.