we grant that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we grant that" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to acknowledge a point or argument that someone has made, often as a precursor to presenting a counterargument or further discussion. Example: "We grant that the initial findings are promising, but further research is needed to confirm these results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Furthermore, Gellman has added more recently, even if we grant that rock bottom beliefs are at times open to belief assessment, the exclusivist need not engage in such assessment in the face of religious diversity unless she finds that the awareness of such diversity is causing her to lose significant confidence in her own perspective.

SEP

We grant that in the singular Santa Clans is a fin old gent, but we suspect that in the plural he be something else.

The New Yorker

Even if we grant that prudence in the cause of security justifies collective punishment, HR 158 does not punish either Pakistani or Saudis dual nationals.

The Guardian

[8] We grant that in journalism, opinion writers like Mr. Kristof, might have a bit more leeway to inject their opinion whatever it might be on matters that they address.

The New York Times

If we grant that the poor tend to have refrigerators and air-conditioners and cell phones and are objectively better off than their medieval peers, there is still good reason to worry about the rich-poor gap.

The Economist

Even if we grant that Mr. Clinton did not weaken the military bequeathed him by President Ronald Reagan and the first President Bush, a dubious point, the armed forces winning this war are still not Bill Clinton's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"Long ago, Mr. Kenyon's attorney asked for an opportunity to surrender his client and we granted that request instead of arresting him," she said.

The New York Times

"We don't grant that same perspective when we're talking [about] people who have different skin colors," Singh said.

Huffington Post

"He applied for a one-year extension, and we granted that.

The New York Times

Goodell reiterated "We asked for video, but we were never granted that opportunity".

The Guardian - Sport

But we were never granted that opportunity".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we grant that" to acknowledge a valid point before presenting a counterargument or exploring further nuances of the topic. It adds credibility to your argument by showing you've considered opposing viewpoints.

Common error

Avoid using "we grant that" excessively in informal writing or speech. It can sound overly formal or stilted in contexts where a more conversational tone is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we grant that" functions as a concessive conjunction phrase. It's used to introduce a point that is conceded or acknowledged as true, often before presenting a contrasting or qualifying argument. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we grant that" is a conjunction phrase used to acknowledge a point or concede something, often as a prelude to introducing a contrasting argument or further analysis. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and most frequently used in news media and science, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While not exceedingly common, it serves an important function in nuanced argumentation, signaling that opposing viewpoints have been considered. When composing an argumentative paragraph, consider alternatives such as "we concede that" or "we acknowledge that". This validates the idea that a writer's tone can be adapted to various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we concede that

Similar in meaning, but may imply a more reluctant acceptance of a point.

we acknowledge that

Focuses on recognizing the truth or existence of something, without necessarily agreeing with it.

we admit that

Implies acknowledging something that was previously denied or not openly stated.

we recognize that

Highlights the awareness and understanding of a particular fact or situation.

we allow that

Suggests permitting something to be considered, even if not fully accepted.

it is granted that

A more formal and passive way of expressing the same idea.

let us assume that

Introduces a hypothesis or assumption for the sake of argument.

assuming that

Expresses a condition or supposition upon which something else depends.

even if we accept that

Emphasizes that even with acceptance, further considerations are necessary.

for the sake of argument

Introduces a point conceded temporarily, without full agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "we grant that" in a sentence?

You can use "we grant that" to acknowledge a point before presenting a contrasting argument. For example, "We grant that the initial investment is high, but the long-term returns are substantial."

What are some alternatives to "we grant that"?

Alternatives include "we concede that", "we acknowledge that", or "it is granted that". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is "we grant that" formal or informal?

"We grant that" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, consider using phrases like "I agree that" or "okay, but".

What's the difference between "we grant that" and "we accept that"?

"We grant that" implies acknowledging a point for the sake of argument, while "we accept that" suggests a more complete agreement. You might grant a point without fully accepting all its implications.