please accept that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please accept that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to request someone to acknowledge or agree to a particular point or situation. Example: "In light of the new evidence, please accept that our previous conclusions may need to be revised."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

If we are going to live in a world where the vegetables have teams of spin doctors, can we please accept that, whatever witless hyperbole they employ in the boosting of their particular designated legume does not, in any way, represent the eating habits of a nation and will do precisely bugger all to affect them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We would do nothing to offend the audience, so please accept that apology".

Huffington Post

The peloton is a jungle, everyone knows it, so can we please accept that and move on.

The Guardian - Sport

Please accept that you have a responsibility to do the hard work of learning to understand this stuff before it's too late.

The New York Times

You're the only country star to be on the cover of Vogue in recent memory, so please accept that you're a star and a grownup.

The New Yorker

And if you are not in recovery, but you are at an office party and someone declines an offer of an alcoholic beverage, please accept that as the most reasonable choice in the world and move on.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

And while I know it is tempting to think you can find those mythical managers that do well over time, please accept the data that says the odds are stacked against you, and it will lead you to do dumb things with your money.

The New York Times

Please accept my apologies that I will not be there for the graduation ceremony.

The Washington Post

In that vein, please accept this letter in the spirit with which it is offered, with great admiration and great concern.

Huffington Post

To further that wonderful effort, please accept not only this enclosed financial contribution, but also my fervent thanks and best wishes.

Los Angeles Times

If this is the case then please accept my apologies and reassurance that this was not intentional".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience. In very formal settings, a more direct statement might be preferable.

Common error

Avoid using "please accept that" in casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "understand that" or direct statements are usually more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please accept that" functions as a polite request for acknowledgment or agreement. It serves to introduce a statement, often one that might be unwelcome or require a shift in understanding. Ludwig indicates that this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "please accept that" serves as a polite and often necessary tool for requesting acknowledgement or agreement, especially when delivering potentially unwelcome news. Ludwig indicates that it is correct and usable in written English. As highlighted by Ludwig, it functions to encourage understanding while mitigating resistance. Although grammatically sound and featured in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times, it is more appropriate for professional or neutral settings, such as news articles or academic papers, and less so for casual conversations. Related phrases like "kindly acknowledge that" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kindly acknowledge that

Emphasizes politeness and formality in requesting acknowledgment.

please recognize that

Focuses on the act of recognizing or understanding a particular fact or situation.

it is important to understand that

Highlights the importance of comprehension and acceptance.

you must understand that

Implies a necessary condition for understanding or further action.

it should be understood that

Presents the information as something that should be generally accepted.

let's agree that

Proposes a mutual agreement on a certain point.

can we all agree that

Seeks a consensus among a group.

bear in mind that

Draws attention to something that should not be forgotten or overlooked.

keep in mind that

Similar to "bear in mind that", emphasizing the importance of remembering something.

take note that

Directs attention to a specific piece of information.

FAQs

How can I use "please accept that" in a sentence?

You can use "please accept that" to gently introduce a fact or request understanding. For example, "Given the circumstances, please accept that a delay is unavoidable."

What phrases are similar to "please accept that"?

Similar phrases include "kindly acknowledge that", "please recognize that", or "it is important to understand that". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "please accept that" or a more direct statement?

The choice depends on the context. "Please accept that" softens the tone, making it useful when delivering potentially negative news. A direct statement is more appropriate when clarity and brevity are crucial.

When is it inappropriate to use "please accept that"?

It may be inappropriate in very informal situations or when dealing with someone who values directness over politeness. Overusing it can also make you sound insincere.