屈 (qū): This character's core meaning is “to bend,” “to crouch,” or “to curve.” It can also mean “grievance” or “injustice,” which hints at the negative feeling associated with being forced to bend against your will.
服 (fú): This character means “to obey,” “to serve,” or “to be convinced.” It's the same character used in `衣服 (yīfu)`, meaning “clothes,” which “serve” the body by conforming to its shape.
When combined, 屈服 (qūfú) literally means “to bend and obey.” The characters create a vivid image of someone being physically and mentally forced to submit, often with a feeling of being wronged (from 屈) while being made to conform (from 服).
屈服 (qūfú) is a relatively formal word, most appropriate for written language, news reports, and serious discussions. While understood in conversation, using it to describe everyday situations (like losing an argument with a friend) can sound overly dramatic.
Negative Connotation: The word is almost always used in a context of negativity or defeat. It's what the “loser” of a conflict does.
Yielding to Pressure or Authority: This is the most common usage. It describes giving in to demands from a boss, the government, or societal expectations.
Yielding to Temptation: It can be used to describe giving in to a personal weakness or vice.
Abstract Usage: It's often used with abstract concepts like fate, truth, or principles. A common positive phrase is `永不屈服 (yǒng bù qūfú)` - “never yield.”