admit

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "admit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea of owning up to something or to allow someone to enter. Example sentence: I had to admit that I was wrong.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today he had to admit that not only has he missed his debt target but that growth will be substantially lower than he forecast.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is understood that the Boston archive includes claims by both dead and living IRA members that Adams as a senior commander in the organisation in 1972 came up with the idea of "disappearing" McConville rather than publicly admit the terror group had killed her.

The Guardian

I had to admit that it would actually cost the government more for a woman not to be in prostitution, but ultimately these are your citizens.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Labour MPs admit privately they are all deeply worried about the SNP surge, which allows the SNP to challenge for seats where it was previously a distant also-ran.

The Guardian

Aside from the itchy polyester outfit, I have to admit I rather enjoyed the experience.

The Guardian - Opinion

The creators admit they never expected this level of interest.

The Guardian

He was finally forced to admit his guilt due to a "meticulous and impressive" police operation, with help from British, American and Pakistani intelligence, Mr Justice Butterfield, the judge, was told.

The Guardian

Industry sources suggest about a dozen could be closed to increase line speeds: fewer than campaigners fear, although more than Smith is willing to admit to.

The Guardian

A charge is generated when comedy and seriousness mix, when funny people admit that not everything is always funny.

The Guardian

The couple were sent refunds of the tax they had paid, but admit they failed to read the letter in its entirety, assuming all was well.

The Guardian - Money

"This has resulted in a slight impact on waiting times, but we continue to admit, treat and discharge more than nine out of 10 patients within four hours".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "admit" to concede a point in an argument, consider the tone and whether a more formal word like "concede" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "admit" when you mean "accept". "Admit" implies acknowledging something is true, while "accept" means to receive or agree to something. For example, say "I accept your apology" not "I admit your apology".

Linguistic Context

Admit" functions primarily as a verb, signifying acknowledging the truth of something, allowing entry, or granting access. Examples from Ludwig show it used in contexts of confessing guilt or recognizing a fact. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "admit" is a versatile verb used to acknowledge something, allow entry, or concede a point. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English. Its frequency is very common, particularly in News & Media sources. When writing, remember to choose the most appropriate synonym depending on the context, such as "acknowledge", "confess", or "concede". Avoid substituting "admit" for "accept". As seen in the provided examples, "admit" often appears in scenarios where someone is confessing to something or when granting permission. When used effectively, "admit" can enhance clarity and transparency in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acknowledge

A more formal synonym, implying recognition of something's truth or existence.

confess

Implies admitting something wrong or embarrassing.

concede

Suggests reluctantly admitting something, often in an argument.

own up to

An informal way to admit responsibility for something.

fess up

A very informal and colloquial way to admit something.

grant

To concede as true, acknowledge or assent to, as an allegation which it is impossible to deny.

recognize

Acknowledge the existence, validity, or legality of (something).

allow

To concede; acknowledge

accept

To receive something offered

come clean

To tell the truth about something that one has kept secret

FAQs

How to use "admit" in a sentence?

You can use "admit" to acknowledge something, such as "I had to "admit" that I was wrong" or to grant entry, like "The ticket will "admit" you to the event".

What can I say instead of "admit"?

You can use alternatives like "acknowledge", "confess", or "concede" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "admit to" or "admit"?

Both are correct, but they have slightly different uses. You "admit" a fact or truth directly. You "admit to" a deed or action, especially when confessing something wrong.

What's the difference between "admit" and "confess"?

"Admit" is a general term for acknowledging something, while "confess" usually implies acknowledging something wrong or shameful.