concede
To admit or acknowledge something reluctantly, often after initial resistance
Examples
In a meeting
“After reviewing the data, I have to concede that the original timeline was too optimistic.”
Over coffee
“Okay, I'll concede that you were right about that restaurant being amazing.”
Why this word
admit
concede implies reluctantly acknowledging something after resistance, while admit is neutral about acknowledging facts
acknowledge
concede suggests yielding a point in an argument or competition, while acknowledge simply means recognizing something exists
surrender
concede specifically means granting a point or position to an opponent, while surrender broadly means giving up completely
Usage tip
Use when you're acknowledging a point or admitting something you initially disagreed with. It implies thoughtful reconsideration rather than immediate agreement.
Etymology
Latin 'concedere' (con- 'completely' + cedere 'yield, go')
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
evaluate
To assess or judge the value, quality, or significance of something.
discern
To perceive or recognize a subtle difference or hidden truth.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.