Translation guide
The English verb 'concede' covers several distinct meanings: admitting something is true, reluctantly giving something up, or acknowledging defeat. This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese expressions for each.
To acknowledge that a fact, statement, or point is valid, especially after initially resisting it.
The most common and versatile verb for 'admit' or 'acknowledge'. Can be used in many contexts.
彼は自分の間違いを認めた。
He conceded his mistake.
A formal pattern meaning 'have no choice but to admit'. Emphasizes the reluctance.
彼の実力を認めざるを得ない。
I have to concede his ability.
To confess or admit something one has been hiding, often with a nuance of guilt.
彼は嘘をついていたと白状した。
He conceded that he had been lying.
To surrender or hand over something such as a right, territory, or point in an argument, often unwillingly.
To yield, concede, or hand over. Commonly used for giving up a seat, a turn, or a point in a discussion.
彼はその点を譲らなかった。
He didn't concede that point.
To make a concession. Often used in negotiations or debates.
交渉でいくつか譲歩した。
We conceded several points in the negotiation.
To vacate or surrender territory or a position. Used in military or legal contexts.
To admit that you have lost a game, election, or competition.
The standard phrase for conceding defeat. Literally 'admit loss'.
彼は選挙で負けを認めた。
He conceded the election.
A more formal version, using the word for 'defeat'.
チームは敗北を認めた。
The team conceded defeat.
Loanword from English 'give up'. Casual and often used in games or sports.
彼は試合でギブアップした。
He conceded the match.
認める is for admitting facts or truths, while 譲る is for yielding something tangible or a point in an argument. Use 認める when the focus is on acknowledging reality, and 譲る when you are giving something up to another party.
彼は自分の非を認めたが、権利は譲らなかった。
He conceded his fault but didn't concede his rights.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'concede'. Avoid using コンシードする, which is not standard. Choose the appropriate verb based on the specific meaning.
軍はその地域を明け渡した。
The army conceded the territory.