concede with good grace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "concede with good grace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging defeat or admitting a mistake in a manner that is dignified and respectful. Example: "Even though he lost the debate, he chose to concede with good grace, thanking his opponent for a well-fought argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If one must concede it is better to do so with good grace," he wrote to Mazzini.

The New Yorker

He took it with good grace.

The New York Times

He always did this with good grace.

The Guardian

Langley accepts it all with good grace.

The Guardian

I try and take these things with good grace.

The New York Times

"Mr Turner accepted that apology with good grace.

Independent

Our waiter consented but not with good grace.

The New York Times

Zuniga submits with good grace and is escorted out.

Britannica

"We accepted what they said with good grace.

The New York Times

And the beer was changed with good grace.

The Guardian - Travel

But he did it with good grace, and we gelled.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "concede with good grace" when you want to emphasize not just the act of conceding, but also the positive attitude and dignified manner in which it is done. This is particularly relevant in situations where maintaining relationships and demonstrating sportsmanship are important.

Common error

Be careful not to use "concede with good grace" when the situation requires further negotiation or clarification. Conceding gracefully should not be misinterpreted as full agreement if underlying issues remain unresolved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "concede with good grace" functions as a verb phrase that describes a specific manner of conceding. It emphasizes not only the act of conceding but also the positive and respectful attitude accompanying it. It reflects a conscious choice to relinquish a position or argument in a dignified way, aligning with the Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "concede with good grace" describes the act of acknowledging defeat or admitting a mistake in a dignified and respectful manner. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While the examples are currently limited, the phrase conveys a strong sense of sportsmanship and emotional maturity. To enhance your writing, consider using "accept defeat gracefully" or "yield with good manners" as alternatives, depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accept defeat gracefully

Focuses on the acceptance of defeat with elegance and composure, removing the explicit act of conceding.

yield with good manners

Emphasizes the act of yielding or surrendering while maintaining polite behavior.

relent gracefully

Highlights the act of becoming less strict or harsh in a composed manner.

capitulate with dignity

Suggests a formal surrender while preserving self-respect and honor.

submit with decorum

Implies a formal submission to authority or superior force with proper and polite behavior.

acquiesce with composure

Highlights a calm and controlled acceptance of something without protest.

bow to the inevitable with grace

Acceptance of something unavoidable with elegance, but using a more descriptive language.

take a loss in stride

Indicates dealing with a setback calmly and resiliently, without necessarily conceding.

swallow one's pride

Focuses on suppressing one's ego to accept something, often a defeat or mistake.

admit defeat with humility

Concentrates on acknowledging defeat with a modest and respectful attitude.

FAQs

How can I use "concede with good grace" in a sentence?

You can use "concede with good grace" to describe someone who accepts defeat or admits a mistake in a dignified and respectful manner. For example, "Even though he lost the debate, he chose to "concede with good grace", thanking his opponent for a well-fought argument."

What's the difference between "concede with good grace" and "accept defeat gracefully"?

"Accept defeat gracefully" emphasizes the acceptance of loss with elegance, while "concede with good grace" highlights the act of yielding or acknowledging defeat with a positive and respectful attitude. Both phrases convey a similar sentiment, but "concede" specifically implies an active yielding.

What can I say instead of "concede with good grace"?

You can use alternatives like "accept defeat gracefully", "yield with good manners", or "relent gracefully" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "concede with good grace" or fight until the end?

The best approach depends on the situation. If further conflict would be unproductive or damaging, it may be wiser to "concede with good grace". However, if there's a reasonable chance of success or important principles are at stake, fighting until the end might be justified.