accept defeat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "accept defeat" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you acknowledge the fact that someone else has beaten you or been better than you in some way. For example, "Despite wanting to win, I had to accept defeat when my opponent got the higher score."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We accept defeat.

Independent

You don't accept defeat.

Independent

He will not accept defeat.

Independent

It's difficult to accept defeat.

The New York Times

Don't accept defeat.

The New York Times

Kidd would not accept defeat.

The New York Times - Sports

Alex refused to accept defeat quietly.

The New York Times

"And I will not accept defeat".

The Guardian

And neither said he would accept defeat.

The New York Times

Unwilling to accept defeat, conservative Catholics secured a referendum.

The Economist

It is also perhaps easier to accept defeat.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "accept defeat" when you want to convey a sense of acknowledging loss or failure, often with a degree of resignation or understanding. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While both phrases relate to acknowledging loss, be aware that "admitting defeat" can sometimes imply a prior denial or struggle, whereas "accepting defeat" suggests a more passive recognition of the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "accept defeat" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. It signifies the act of acknowledging and coming to terms with a loss or failure. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from sports to politics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "accept defeat" is a commonly used verb phrase that signifies acknowledging and coming to terms with a loss or failure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Usage analysis reveals its prevalence in news and media, but also finds its use in formal and business contexts. When using this phrase, consider the subtle difference between "accepting defeat" and "admitting defeat", with the latter sometimes implying a prior denial. For alternatives, consider phrases such as "concede the loss" or "acknowledge failure" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concede the loss

Replaces "defeat" with "loss" and uses the verb "concede" to emphasize the act of acknowledging defeat.

acknowledge failure

Substitutes "defeat" with "failure", highlighting the unsuccessful outcome.

yield to the opponent

Focuses on the act of giving way to the opposing party, often in a competitive context.

bow to the inevitable

Implies that defeat was unavoidable and emphasizes acceptance of the outcome.

swallow your pride

Highlights the emotional aspect of accepting defeat, suggesting humility.

face the music

An idiomatic expression that means accepting the negative consequences of one's actions or failure.

succumb to the outcome

Emphasizes the act of giving in to the result, often implying a lack of resistance.

resign yourself to fate

Implies accepting defeat as a predetermined outcome.

take it on the chin

An idiomatic expression suggesting facing defeat with courage and resilience.

bite the bullet

An idiomatic expression meaning to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.

FAQs

What does it mean to "accept defeat"?

To "accept defeat" means to acknowledge that you have lost or failed in something, and to come to terms with that outcome.

How can I use "accept defeat" in a sentence?

You might say, "After a valiant effort, the team had to "accept defeat"" or "He struggled, but ultimately "accepted defeat" with grace".

What can I say instead of "accept defeat"?

You can use alternatives like "concede the loss", "acknowledge failure", or "yield to the opponent" depending on the context.

Is "accepting defeat" the same as "admitting defeat"?

While similar, "accepting defeat" suggests a passive recognition, while "admitting defeat" may imply a prior denial or struggle.