concede - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
concede Word Meanings
- to admit something is true, often reluctantly
- to allow someone to have something
- to acknowledge defeat in a game or contest
concede Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
concede Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈsiːd/
US
/kənˈsiːd/
concede Word Etymology
con- (together) + cedere (to yield) → Latin to Old French to English. Imagine a person reluctantly giving ground in an argument, like stepping back in a discussion while still feeling a bit of resistance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Standing with the card in my hand, I pause, then move to speak what's true and place the truth on the table. I shift my tone, ease the stubborn edge in my voice, and admit something I'd rather keep hidden. A small change blooms inside as I let the other person have their turn, keeping the space open for more talk instead of a fight. It feels like steering a conversation toward balance, a quiet push that keeps the door open for what comes next.
Real Context
Concede is a verb that means to admit something is true, often reluctantly, or to allow someone to have something, or to acknowledge defeat in a game or contest. In arguing or negotiating, you may concede a point to reach a compromise, even if you still believe your stance has some validity. The word implies a willingness to yield ground rather than a full reversal of belief. Concede can also describe admitting a fact in official situations or when a claim is clearly proven. Its roots trace to con- (together) and cedere (to yield) in Latin, passing through Old French into English.
Usage Reminders
- - Use with 'a point' or 'defeat' to indicate yielding ground.
- - Don’t confuse concede with confess; concede is about argument, not guilt.
- - You can concede gradually or strategically, not only completely.
- - In negotiation, a small concession can unlock a larger agreement.
- - After conceding, restate your underlying position if you need to.
Common Misconceptions
- Concede means always losing the argument
- Concede equals surrendering everything
- Concede is only used in formal contexts
- Concede means confessing guilt
- Concede requires the other person’s agreement
Thinking Differences
Concede in English often signals a measured, strategic yield rather than full admission; learners must notice collocations like 'concede a point' vs 'concede defeat' and the nuance of tone (formal vs informal).
Learning Tips
- Learn the phrases: concede a point, concede defeat, concede ground.
- Notice the prepositions used with concede (a point, defeat, ground).
- Use polite, constructive tone when conceding in discussions.
- Practice with negotiating scenarios to see how a small concession helps.
- Watch for contrast with admit (fact) and confess (guilt).
- Record your own sentences to check naturalness.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'concede' correctly?
A.They won the concession.
B.She refused to concede defeat.
C.He doubted her concession.
D.I agreed to concede the argument.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'concede'?
A.Argue
B.Deny
C.Contest
D.Accept
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'concede'?
A.Refuse
B.Admit
C.Acknowledge
D.Concur
Step 5: Mastery
In a political debate, when might a candidate concede to their opponent?
A.When they are confident of winning
B.When they doubt their opponent's abilities
C.When they formally acknowledge defeat
D.When they agree to accept the opponent's viewpoint
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