concede

Pronunciation: kun-SEED

verb

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of concede

To acknowledge or accept as true, valid, or accurate, often reluctantly or after initial resistance.

Origin of concede

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: concedere

Original meaning: to yield, give way

How it evolved: The word evolved from the Latin 'concedere' (com- 'together' + cedere 'to go, yield') to Old French 'concéder', before becoming 'concede' in English.

The word 'concede' originates from Latin and entered English through Old French, retaining its sense of yielding or granting something.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember concede

Concede sounds like 'concede a game'—when you concede, you admit defeat or accept the truth, even if reluctantly.

Synonyms for concede

Antonyms of concede

concede in a Sentence

  1. After hours of debate, she finally conceded that her opponent's argument held merit.
  2. The candidate refused to concede defeat, despite the overwhelming evidence of his loss.
  3. He grudgingly conceded that the new policy might have some benefits for the company.

concede in Literature & Culture

The word 'concede' frequently appears in political discourse, literature, and historical narratives, often symbolizing humility, maturity, or strategic compromise.

Usage Notes

While 'concede' often implies reluctance, it can also suggest grace or maturity in recognizing another's point of view. It is frequently used in the context of arguments, debates, or conflicts.

Why concede Matters for GRE & SAT

Understanding 'concede' is crucial for GRE test-takers because it often appears in reading comprehension passages discussing debates, negotiations, or intellectual arguments.

Word Family

concession (noun)
The act of yielding or granting something.
concessive (adjective)
Expressing or implying concession.
conceding (verb)
The act of admitting something is true or valid.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'concede' is often used in sports to describe a team or player's acknowledgment of defeat.
  • In politics, 'concession speeches' are a formal way of conceding defeat after an election.
  • The Latin root 'cedere' also gives rise to words like 'precede,' 'recede,' and 'secede,' showing its broad influence on English.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with C

  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • calumny — slander and defamation
  • calumny — slander and defamation