acquiesce in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquiesce in" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate agreement or acceptance of something, often reluctantly or without protest. Example: "After much deliberation, she decided to acquiesce in the committee's decision, even though she had reservations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Austria-Hungary ultimately had to acquiesce in Serbia's territorial gains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To acquiesce in evil is the first step towards fascism.

The Guardian

Douglas then urged the South to acquiesce in the results of the election.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And if so, even an extreme physicalistic materialist could acquiesce in this view.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If we acquiesce in that ruling, this is no longer a sovereign country.

The Economist

They are unlikely to join a government, but might however acquiesce in a minority UNP administration.

The Economist

No Israeli leader will acquiesce in these Palestinian positions, and no bridging formula has proven workable.

The New York Times

patriotic loan, and the nation is ready to acquiesce in these new and heavy sacrifices.

The Economist

And if Russia were to acquiesce in military action, China probably would too.But what of France?

The Economist

But what I can't fathom is our own moral choice, our decision to acquiesce in genocide.

The New York Times

"Nor will we acquiesce in any resumption of nuclear testing by China.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context. "Acquiesce in" often implies a power dynamic or a situation where active resistance might be difficult or inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "acquiesce in" when you mean enthusiastic or voluntary agreement. It suggests a more passive acceptance, not active endorsement.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "acquiesce in" functions as a verb expressing agreement or acceptance, often reluctantly or passively. Ludwig examples show the verb followed by a noun or gerund, indicating the specific thing being acquiesced to. Ludwig AI validates this grammatical function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "acquiesce in" signifies a passive or reluctant acceptance, often without active protest. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and its usage is common, particularly in News & Media and Encyclopedic contexts. While synonyms like "agree to" or "consent to" exist, "acquiesce in" carries a distinct nuance of resignation or lack of enthusiastic support. Understanding this subtle difference helps writers to use the phrase accurately and effectively. Be careful not to use it as a direct and enthusiastic agreement, as it may suggest lack of support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consent to

Focuses on giving permission or agreement, often implying a more active decision than "acquiesce in".

agree to

Indicates a mutual understanding and acceptance of a proposal or situation.

submit to

Implies yielding to authority or force, highlighting a lack of control or choice.

comply with

Emphasizes adherence to rules or regulations, suggesting a formal obligation.

defer to

Indicates yielding to another's judgment or expertise, showing respect or trust.

yield to

Suggests surrendering to pressure or influence, often implying a change of position.

concede to

Implies reluctantly admitting the truth or validity of something.

give in to

Suggests succumbing to temptation or pressure, often implying a weakness of will.

resign oneself to

Highlights a passive acceptance of an undesirable situation, emphasizing a lack of hope for change.

tolerate

Implies allowing something to exist or happen without active opposition, often suggesting disapproval.

FAQs

What does it mean to "acquiesce in" something?

To "acquiesce in" something means to accept something reluctantly but without protest. It implies a passive acceptance rather than an enthusiastic agreement.

How does "acquiesce in" differ from "agree to"?

"Agree to" suggests a more active and willing acceptance, whereas "acquiesce in" implies a reluctant or passive acceptance. You might "agree to" a proposal you support, but you would "acquiesce in" a decision you don't necessarily like but accept nonetheless.

What are some synonyms for "acquiesce in"?

Synonyms for "acquiesce in" include "consent to", "submit to", "comply with", and "yield to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "acquiesce in" or a more direct synonym?

The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Acquiesce in" suggests a passive acceptance, so if you want to emphasize active agreement, a synonym like "approve of" or "support" might be more appropriate.