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.
He conceded his mistake.
A formal pattern meaning 'have no choice but to admit'. Emphasizes the reluctance.
I have to concede his ability.
To confess or admit something one has been hiding, often with a nuance of guilt.
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.
He didn't concede that point.
To make a concession. Often used in negotiations or debates.
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'.
He conceded the election.
A more formal version, using the word for 'defeat'.
The team conceded defeat.
Loanword from English 'give up'. Casual and often used in games or sports.
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.
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.
The army conceded the territory.