it must be admitted

USAGE SUMMARY

"it must be admitted" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to acknowledge the truth of something, often that something has gone wrong or that someone has made a mistake. For example, "It must be admitted that the plan was poorly executed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That, it must be admitted, is part of its appeal to viewers.

The Guardian

Both sides are likely to look askance at a formula which, it must be admitted, contains a contradiction at its heart.

The Economist

Professionally, it must be admitted, he made mistakes.

Independent

Other cities, it must be admitted, endorse the idea.

The Guardian - Opinion

It must be admitted that Zama is frequently loathsome.

The New Yorker

Just as I have to say, "It must be admitted".

The New Yorker

Such a lust, it must be admitted, is monstrous.

The New Yorker

On this sobering Friday evening, it must be admitted that those hopes have been dashed.

Independent

Once Serbia meets tough standards for membership, it must be admitted.

The Economist

Weak tea, it must be admitted, is not as good with varenie as strong tea.

The Economist

But it must be admitted that it would have hit the target on the diagramed deal.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it must be admitted" to introduce a concession or acknowledgement, especially when the information is contrary to a previous argument or expectation. This can enhance your credibility by showing objectivity.

Common error

Avoid using "it must be admitted" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "I admit" or "it's true" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it must be admitted" functions as a discourse marker used to introduce a concession, acknowledgement, or acceptance of a fact. It signals a shift in perspective or a reluctant agreement, often adding nuance to the statement as Ludwig highlights.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it must be admitted" serves as a valuable tool for conceding a point, acknowledging an opposing view, or introducing information that may be unexpected. It is grammatically correct and commonly used, as affirmed by Ludwig. Although suitable for various contexts, it is most frequently observed in news, media and academic writing, reflecting a slightly formal register. To maintain a balanced tone, avoid overuse in casual settings, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it must be acknowledged

This alternative carries a similar meaning but puts more emphasis on the act of recognition.

it has to be admitted

This alternative uses "has to be" suggesting obligation, implying the admission is necessary.

it is undeniable that

This phrase suggests that something cannot be disputed, indicating a strong level of certainty.

it is worth acknowledging

This emphasizes the value or importance of the admission.

it cannot be denied that

This phrase highlights the impossibility of rejecting the truth or existence of something.

it is conceded that

This alternative presents a formal tone, typically used in legal or argumentative contexts.

one must concede that

This phrase shifts the focus to the speaker's obligation to concede, adding a personal element.

it is true that

A simpler way of acknowledging a fact, though lacking the emphasis on reluctant acceptance.

I have to admit

A more personal and direct way of admitting something, shifting the focus to the speaker's perspective.

admittedly

A concise adverb that introduces a statement that acknowledges something, often grudgingly.

FAQs

How can I use "it must be admitted" in a sentence?

Use "it must be admitted" to concede a point or acknowledge something that may be unexpected or run contrary to your argument. For example, "It must be admitted that the initial plan had some flaws."

What phrases are similar to "it must be admitted"?

Alternatives include "it must be acknowledged", "it has to be admitted", or "it is undeniable that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it must be admitted" formal or informal?

"It must be admitted" is generally considered neutral to formal. In very informal settings, phrases like "I admit" or "I have to admit" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "it must be admitted" and "it must be recognized"?

"It must be admitted" implies acknowledging something that might be undesirable or unexpected. "It must be recognized" ("it must be recognized") emphasizes the importance of acknowledging something, not necessarily its unexpected nature.