Concede
Etymology
From Latin "concedere" (to give way, yield, withdraw) — "com-" (with, fully) plus "cedere" (to go, to yield), the root behind cede, recede, and proceed. To concede is to step back and let a point stand; the yielding is deliberate, a giving of ground rather than a losing of it.
verb · /kun-SEED/
To admit that a particular point or claim is true, often one that works against you.
What it names
A handle for granting ground honestly mid-argument — acknowledging a valid point without abandoning your overall position.
Example
She conceded that his data was solid, then argued he’d drawn the wrong conclusion from it.
Related idea
Distinguish it from capitulate: to concede is to grant a specific point while the larger contest continues; to capitulate is to surrender the whole position. Conceding a point can actually strengthen your credibility — it signals you’re arguing in good faith rather than defending every inch.
verb · /kun-SEED/
To admit defeat, or to surrender something to an opponent.
What it names
the act of yielding or giving up
Example
He conceded the election before midnight; the defense conceded a late goal.
Related idea
More than granting a point — giving up the contest itself.