cede the podium

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cede the podium" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of giving up the opportunity to speak or present to someone else, often in a formal or public speaking context. Example: "After sharing her insights, she decided to cede the podium to the next speaker, allowing them to share their perspective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Of course, no one needs to tell Alan Gilbert's New York Philharmonic about the importance of contemporary composition: he'll cede the podium to the young American conductor James Gaffigan, who will lead the orchestra and the distinguished pianist Jeffrey Kahane in the world première of "Split" (Dec. 10-12), a piano concerto by the fabulously talented Andrew Norman.

The New Yorker

Of course, no one needs to tell Alan Gilbert's New York Philharmonic about the importance of contemporary composition: he'll cede the podium to the young American conductor James Gaffigan, who will lead the orchestra and the distinguished pianist Jeffrey Kahane in the world première of "Split" (Dec. 10-12), a piano concerto by the fabulously talented **Andrew Norman.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

After a whirlwind account of Mozart's "Marriage of Figaro" overture Mr. Maazel ceded the podium to Jordi Bernàcer, who conducted Mozart's Symphony No. 29.

The New York Times - Arts

Osterloh then cedes the podium to a dapper Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who had helped convince Google brass to move the business downtown from suburban Libertyville.

The Guardian - Tech

Rubenstein, in turn, took the opportunity to praise other notables, before ceding the podium to the Whitney's chairman, Leonard Lauder, who is also the chairman of Estée Lauder (a Rubenstein client).

The New Yorker

James Levine led a delightful opening run, and now he cedes the podium to Edo de Waart, who conducts a cast that includes Erwin Schrott and Danielle de Niese, in the roles of Figaro and Susanna; Mariusz Kwiecien and Rachel Willis-Sørensen Willis-Sørensennd Countess; asd Serena Malfi, as Cherubino.

The New Yorker

"And America truly will be America again!" He ceded the podium to NRA president Chris Cox, who announced the NRA's official endorsement of Donald J Trump for the office of president of the United States, then Trump himself took the stage to offer his thoughts.

The Guardian

But they have ceded the podium to the likes of of Akin, Ryan, Bachmann, Karl Rove's astro-turf right-wing populists.

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cede the podium" when you want to emphasize a formal transfer of speaking duties, especially in a structured event or presentation.

Common error

Avoid using "cede the podium" in casual conversations or informal settings. It's a phrase best suited for formal occasions or when describing a planned transfer of authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cede the podium" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of relinquishing a position of authority or a speaking opportunity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and usable expression in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cede the podium" is a grammatically correct verbal phrase used to describe the act of formally relinquishing a speaking position. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for professional and formal contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. While not exceedingly common, it is well-understood and carries a clear connotation of structured authority transfer. Alternatives such as "relinquish the podium" or "yield the podium" offer similar meanings, while options like "give the floor to" provide a more casual feel.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relinquish the podium

Emphasizes a more formal and complete handover of the speaking position.

yield the podium

Suggests a temporary or polite giving up of the speaking position.

hand over the podium

Implies a direct and personal transfer of control over the speaking engagement.

pass the baton

Metaphorically represents transferring leadership or responsibility, including speaking duties.

give the floor to

Focuses on allowing someone else the opportunity to speak.

turn over the microphone

Specifically highlights the act of giving control of the audio device to another speaker.

allow to speak

A simpler, more direct way of indicating permission for someone else to address the audience.

invite to the podium

Suggests a formal invitation for someone to present.

defer to

Highlights respecting another person's expertise and allowing them to speak instead.

give way to

Suggests a yielding or retreat from the speaking position.

FAQs

What does "cede the podium" mean?

To "cede the podium" means to give up one's position as the speaker and allow someone else to take over. It implies a formal transfer of speaking duties in a public or professional context.

How can I use "cede the podium" in a sentence?

You can use "cede the podium" when describing a formal event where one speaker allows another to present. For instance, "After his opening remarks, the CEO will "cede the podium" to the guest speaker".

What are some alternatives to "cede the podium"?

Some alternatives include "relinquish the podium", "yield the podium", or "hand over the podium". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "cede the podium" appropriate for informal settings?

No, "cede the podium" is generally not appropriate for informal settings. It's best reserved for formal occasions or when describing a planned transfer of speaking authority in a professional environment. Consider using more casual alternatives like "let someone else speak" in informal situations.