I concede

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I concede" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that the speaker is admitting or yielding to a point or argument made by someone else. Example: "After much debate, I concede that your proposal may be the best course of action for our company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I concede, Mr. President.

The New Yorker

I concede that.

Independent

I concede: I'm a failure.

Independent

I concede defeat.

The Guardian - Sport

Should I concede?

The New York Times

"I concede the point.

The New York Times

I concede already.

The New Yorker

"I concede the match.

The New York Times - Sports

I concede it never gets any closer.

The New York Times - Travel

But I concede his point.

The New York Times

Reluctantly, I concede it's time to move.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I concede" when you want to formally acknowledge the validity of an opposing argument or viewpoint. It suggests a willingness to yield in a discussion or debate.

Common error

Avoid using "I concede" in very informal settings or casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal or even sarcastic. Simpler phrases like "Okay, you're right" or "I agree" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "I concede" is to act as a declarative statement indicating the speaker's acknowledgement or acceptance of a point, argument, or fact previously held to be contrary to their own position. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I concede" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to formally acknowledge or accept an opposing viewpoint. As Ludwig AI points out, it is usable in written English. Its primary function is to signal agreement and reasonableness, typically in formal settings such as news reporting or professional discussions. While highly versatile, overuse in informal conversation may sound unnatural. Alternative phrases, such as "I admit" or "I accept your point", can be used to add nuance or adjust the level of formality. The sources in Ludwig confirm its frequent appearance in reputable publications, solidifying its status as a valuable tool for persuasive and respectful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I accept your point

Directly states agreement with a specific argument.

I grant you that

Emphasizes the act of formally giving something, in this case, an acknowledgement or point.

I admit that

Focuses on acknowledging something as true, often reluctantly.

I acknowledge that

Highlights recognizing the validity or existence of something.

I recognize that

Similar to acknowledge, but implies a deeper understanding or awareness.

I yield the point

Implies giving way in a debate or argument.

I stand corrected

Indicates that one's previous statement was inaccurate and is now adjusted.

I defer to your opinion

Indicates respect for another's judgment and willingness to submit to it.

You are right

A simple and direct admission of correctness.

I am wrong

A straightforward admission of being incorrect.

FAQs

How to use "I concede" in a sentence?

Use "I concede" to formally acknowledge the validity of someone else's point. For example: "After reviewing the data, "I concede" that your approach is more efficient."

What can I say instead of "I concede"?

You can use alternatives like "I admit", "I acknowledge", or "I accept your point" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I concede" or "I must concede"?

Both "I concede" and "I must concede" are correct. "I must concede" adds emphasis to the admission, suggesting reluctance or obligation to acknowledge the point.

What's the difference between "I concede" and "I surrender"?

""I concede"" acknowledges a point or argument, while "I surrender" implies giving up entirely in a contest or struggle. "I surrender" carries a stronger sense of defeat or submission.