accept
/əkˈsɛpt/verb★Beginner
general
To receive something willingly or agree to something offered
She accepted the gift with a smile.
He accepted the job offer immediately.
💡
Often used with 'to' or 'as' (e.g., 'accept to do something', 'accept as true')
general
To admit or agree to the truth or existence of something
He finally accepted his mistake.
The court accepted the evidence as valid.
Collocations
accept responsibilityTo take ownership of one's actionsaccept an offerTo agree to a proposal or invitationaccept the consequencesTo acknowledge and face the results of one's actions
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
accept the inevitablephrase
To acknowledge something that cannot be changed
accept no substitutesphrase
To insist on something specific
💡Pro Tip
Common Prepositions
Remember that 'accept' is often followed by 'to' (e.g., 'accept to attend') or 'as' (e.g., 'accept as true').
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
In formal contexts, 'accept' is preferred over 'receive' when referring to agreements or offers.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'accepten', from Latin 'acceptare', meaning 'to receive willingly'
📝Usage Notes
Can be followed by a direct object (e.g., 'accept a gift') or a 'to' infinitive (e.g., 'accept to help').
Word Breakdown
ac
To, toward
prefixcept
To take, seize
rootEnglish Dictionary