cede the argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cede the argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that someone is yielding or giving up their position in a debate or discussion. Example: "After considering the evidence presented, I have to cede the argument to my opponent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dr. Ravitch agrees that disadvantaged pupils may complete academic lessons at a slower pace, but her concession cedes the argument.

The New York Times

If Nancy Pelosi should have known – according to Goss – that the torture techniques "were to be used," he is ceding the argument that they weren't already told those techniques had been used.

The Guardian - Opinion

I am also unwilling to cede the leave argument to rightwing Conservatives when there's a long and proud tradition of leftwing opposition to the EU.

The Guardian - Opinion

But not in a reactionary way that would cede the terms of the argument to the museum's opponents.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even if we cede the anti-immigrant arguments, the cure will almost certainly be worse than the disease.

Forbes

The Democrats in Congress have all but ceded the debate.

The New York Times

Harold Ford says that even though he believes in doing the right thing when it's convenient and it doesn't make him feel bad, Weiner is wrong and it's time to really lick boot and cede all the arguments to the GOP, because of the election.

Huffington Post

Not cede the dialogue".

The New Yorker

Couldn't he just cede the reins?

The New York Times

(Tarmoh eventually chose to cede the spot).

The New Yorker

Neither can it cede the seas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cede the argument" when you want to formally acknowledge that your opponent has made a valid point and you are willing to concede your position.

Common error

Avoid using "cede the argument" in contexts where you simply want to pause or redirect the discussion; it implies a full concession, not just a temporary shift.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cede the argument" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate the act of relinquishing one's position in a debate or discussion. According to Ludwig AI, this typically implies acknowledging the validity of the opposing viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cede the argument" is a phrase used to formally concede a point in a debate, acknowledging the validity of an opposing viewpoint. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Although its frequency is rare, it's commonly found in news and media as well as scientific contexts. When considering related phrases, "concede the point", "relinquish the argument", and "yield the argument" offer similar meanings, each with subtle nuances in their implications. While using this phrase, ensure it reflects your intention to fully concede, rather than just pause or redirect the discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concede the point

Focuses on admitting the validity of a specific point rather than the entire argument.

relinquish the argument

Emphasizes a more forceful abandonment of the argument.

yield the argument

Suggests a temporary or strategic surrender of the argument.

surrender the argument

Implies a complete and decisive defeat in the debate.

give up the argument

A more informal way of saying "cede the argument".

withdraw the argument

Focuses on retracting the argument from consideration.

back down from the argument

Suggests a retreat from a previously held position.

abandon the argument

Emphasizes a complete and permanent forsaking of the argument.

grant the argument

Focuses on acknowledging the validity of the entire argument presented.

acquiesce to the argument

Implies reluctant agreement or acceptance of the argument.

FAQs

How to use "cede the argument" in a sentence?

You can use "cede the argument" when you want to indicate that you are yielding or giving up your position in a debate or discussion. For example: "After considering the evidence presented, I have to "cede the argument" to my opponent."

What can I say instead of "cede the argument"?

You can use alternatives like "concede the point", "relinquish the argument", or "yield the argument" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "cede the argument" or "seed the argument"?

"Cede the argument" is correct when you mean to relinquish or surrender your position in a debate. "Seed the argument" is not a standard or recognized phrase.

What's the difference between "cede the argument" and "withdraw the argument"?

"Cede the argument" implies admitting defeat or acknowledging the other side's validity. "Withdraw the argument" means retracting your argument, possibly without admitting it was wrong.