ENGLISH
REFERENCE

admits

v.
B1 Intermediate US //ədˈmɪts// UK //ɐdmˈɪts// ad·mits

v. to agree that something is true, especially when you are unhappy or embarrassed about it. You also use it when someone is allowed to enter a place.

v. to acknowledge the truth or existence of something, often reluctantly; to allow entry into a place or group. Transitive — requires a direct object or a 'that' clause.


SIMPLE

He finally admits that he was wrong.

CONTEXTUAL

The security guard admits only those who have a valid staff ID card to the building.

COMPLEX

While the politician admits to making several errors in judgment, she maintains that her primary motivation was always the public interest rather than personal gain.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Often followed by a 'that' clause or the preposition 'to' when acknowledging a fault.

Pitfall

He admits to be wrongHe admits to being wrongWhen 'admit to' is followed by a verb, it must be in the -ing form (gerund), not the infinitive.

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