In this lesson, we’ll explore the meanings and distinctions between these confused words: “Accede,” “Concede,” and “Exceed.” These words are often confused due to their similar spellings, but they convey different ideas related to yielding, accepting, and surpassing. Understanding these nuances will help you use them accurately in your writing and speech.
Word 1: Accede
Definition:
“Accede” means to agree to a request, proposal, or demand, often by assuming a position of authority or yielding to a condition.
Examples of use:
“He may accede to the throne, but only after taking the oath.”
“I accede to your demands, as long as they are realistic.”
“The board acceded to the shareholders’ demands for greater transparency.”
Word 2: Concede
Definition:
“Concede” involves reluctantly accepting or admitting defeat, a point, or an argument, often after a struggle or debate.
Examples of use:
“Friends urged the candidate not to concede on election night.”
“After hours of negotiation, she finally conceded to their terms.”
“He reluctantly conceded that he had made a mistake in his calculations.”
Word 3: Exceed
Definition:
“Exceed” means to go beyond a specified limit, boundary, expectation, or standard.
Examples of use:
“The product and service exceed our customer’s expectations.”
“Her performance on the exam exceeded everyone’s predictions.”
“The budget for the project exceeded the initial estimate by a significant margin.”
Summary:
In summary, “Accede” involves agreeing to a demand or condition, “Concede” entails reluctantly accepting defeat or a point, and “Exceed” means surpassing a limit or expectation. By understanding these distinctions, you’ll be able to use these terms accurately in your writing and speech. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll master these nuances effortlessly!
