ENGLISH
REFERENCE

admittedly

adv.
US //ædˈmɪtɪdɫi// UK //ɐdmˈɪtɪdli// ad·mit·ted·ly
  1. 1 conceding a point (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    you use this to admit that a fact is true, especially before you say something that disagrees with it.

    used as a conjunctive adverb to signal a concession, typically followed by a counterpoint introduced by 'but' or 'however'.

    Example

    Admittedly, the car is very old, but it is still very reliable for long trips.

    Example

    Admittedly, the initial investment is substantial; however, the long-term savings on energy costs will eventually justify the expenditure.

    Usage

    Usually placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a concession.

Origin

From admitted + -ly.

Word family

© 2026 English Reference