Find Antonyms
concede Antonyms
Opposite of concede
Because the opposite of concede shifts with each meaning, the 16 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To admit, often reluctantly, that something is true or valid after first denying or resisting it.
Usage Example
"After reviewing the new evidence, the researcher had to deny that her initial hypothesis was flawed."
Strongest
deny
dispute
Strong
refute
reject
contest
contradict
gainsay
• verb (Context 2)
To surrender or yield a possession, right, privilege, or formal acknowledgment of defeat in a contest or election.
Usage Example
"Once the final precincts reported their tally, the incumbent called his opponent to retain the election."
Strongest
retain
Strong
withhold
defend
keep
claim
win
• verb (Context 3)
To fail to stop an opposing player or team from scoring a goal or point in a game.
Usage Example
"The defending champions played well in the first half but conceded two late goals in the final ten minutes."
Strong
score
save
block
Similar words to concede
Words similar to concede shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
yield
admit
acknowledge
surrender
relinquish
grant
allow
cede
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Concede. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/concede