C1verb2K

Concede

UK /["/kənˈsiːd/","/kənˈsiːdz/","/kənˈsiːdɪd/","/kənˈsiːdɪŋ/"]/US /["/kənˈsiːd/","/kənˈsiːdz/","/kənˈsiːdɪd/","/kənˈsiːdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to admit that something is true, logical, etc. after first denying it or resisting it

In simple words: To admit that something is true or that you have lost.

Examples

  • After a long debate, he had to concede that his opponent made some valid points.
  • Despite his fierce determination, he decided to concede the match in the final moments.
  • The government may eventually need to concede more power to the local authorities.
  • In negotiations, it is often necessary to concede certain demands to reach an agreement.
  • She chose not to concede anything during the discussion, standing firmly by her beliefs.

Usage notes

Used in discussions, debates, or competitions to acknowledge an opposing argument or result. It may not be appropriate in casual conversations where a more informal tone is expected.

Grammar pattern

concede + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'con-cede' — imagine conceding ground to the other team in a game.

Collocations

  • eventually
  • finally
  • readily
  • be forced to
  • be prepared to
  • be willing to
  • to
  • eventually
  • finally
  • readily
  • be forced to
  • be prepared to
  • be willing to
  • to
  • eventually
  • finally
  • readily
  • be forced to
  • be prepared to
  • be willing to
  • to

Synonyms

  • admit
  • acknowledge
  • yield
  • grant
  • surrender

Antonyms

  • deny
  • dispute
  • refuse

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'succeed' — they have opposite meanings.
  • Using 'concede' without an object — it's usually followed by what is being admitted.
  • Mistaking it for 'agree' — conceding often implies a reluctant admission.