concedes; conceded; conceding
1
: to say that you accept or do not deny the truth or existence of (something) : to admit (something) usually in an unwilling way
I concede that the work has been slow so far, but it should speed up soon.
When she noted that the economy was actually improving, he grudgingly/reluctantly conceded the point. [=he admitted that she was right]
"Your plan might work," she conceded, "but I still think mine is better."
It is generally conceded [=acknowledged, agreed] that they are the superior team. [=most people agree that they are the superior team]
2
: to admit that you have been defeated and stop trying to win
Although it seems clear that he has lost the election, he still refuses to concede.
He's not ready to concede the election.
They were forced to concede defeat. [=to admit that they were defeated]
3
: to give away (something) usually in an unwilling way
The former ruler was forced to concede power to a new government.
The company says that workers are not conceding enough in negotiations.
4
sports
: to allow an opponent to score (a point, goal, etc.)
The team has not conceded [=allowed] a goal this half.
Cite this Entry
“Concede.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/concede. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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