Understanding ‘Concession’: A Key Word for IELTS Success
Learn the meaning, usage, and importance of the word ‘concession’ for IELTS candidates aiming for a high band score. This video covers its definition, word type, synonyms, antonyms, and common usage errors to help improve your English proficiency.
Imagine you’re in a heated negotiation. Both sides are firm in their positions, but suddenly, one party offers a concession.
This small act can change the entire dynamic of the discussion. Today, we’re exploring the word concession, a term that’s crucial for IELTS candidates aiming for a band score of eight point zero or higher.
Word type: Concession is primarily used as a noun, though it can also function as a verb in certain contexts.
Meaning: At its core, a concession is something that is granted or yielded, often in the face of demand or pressure.
It typically involves giving up something or making an allowance to reach an agreement or end a dispute.
In business, it might refer to the right to sell goods or services in a particular place. In rhetoric, it’s acknowledging a point made by an opponent before countering it.
Word history: The term concession comes from the Latin word concessio, meaning a granting or permitting.
It entered the English language in the mid fifteenth century, initially referring to the act of granting or yielding.
Antonyms: Some antonyms for concession include denial, refusal, rejection, and withholding. These words represent the opposite of granting or yielding something.
Synonyms: Synonyms for concession include compromise, allowance, admission, acknowledgment, and yielding.
In a business context, it might be synonymous with franchise or license.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how to use concession in various contexts.
In negotiations, one might say: The union made several concessions to management in order to avoid a strike.
In a rhetorical context: I’ll make a concession that your point about climate change is valid, but I still believe immediate action is necessary.
In a business setting: The company won a lucrative concession to operate food stalls in the new sports stadium.
In everyday life: As a concession to his wife’s preferences, John agreed to paint the living room beige instead of bright red.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing concession with confession. While both involve admitting something, a concession is typically made in an argument or negotiation, while a confession is an admission of wrongdoing or guilt.
Another error is using concession when conceding would be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying He made a concession that he was wrong, it’s better to say He conceded that he was wrong.
Lastly, be cautious about the prepositions used with concession. We typically make concessions to someone or make concessions on an issue, not make concessions for someone.
To wrap up, mastering the word concession and its various applications can significantly enhance your IELTS performance.
It demonstrates a nuanced understanding of negotiation, argumentation, and business contexts. Remember, a concession isn’t a sign of weakness, but often a strategic move towards resolution or agreement.
By incorporating this word effectively in your English usage, you’re making a strong concession to achieving that coveted band eight point zero score.
