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B1 verb #16 most common 18 min read

admit

Top 16

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips admit in 30 Seconds

Explanation admit in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'admit' is usually introduced in its simplest form related to physical entry or basic honesty. A beginner might learn it in the context of a ticket or a sign. For example, 'The ticket admits one person' means the ticket lets one person go inside. It is a very useful word for traveling and going to events like the cinema or a museum. Beginners also learn to use 'admit' when they want to say 'yes' to something they did. If a teacher asks, 'Did you break the pencil?' and the student says 'Yes,' they are admitting it. At this level, we keep the sentences very simple. We don't worry too much about complex grammar like gerunds. We focus on the basic idea: letting someone in or telling the truth about a small thing. It is a 'gatekeeper' word that helps you understand rules about where you can go and what you should say when you make a mistake. Learning 'admit' early helps students build a foundation for more complex social interactions later on. It is often taught alongside words like 'enter,' 'ticket,' and 'truth.' Even at this basic level, knowing 'admit' helps a student navigate signs in English-speaking countries, such as 'Admit One' or 'No Admittance,' which are very common in public spaces.

At the A2 level, learners start to use 'admit' in slightly more varied sentences. They move beyond just physical entry and begin to use it for simple social confessions. An A2 student might say, 'I admit I am tired' or 'He admitted he was wrong.' At this stage, the 'admit + that-clause' pattern becomes more common. Learners also start to see 'admit' in the context of school or clubs, such as 'The club admits new members every month.' They understand that 'admit' is a more formal way of saying 'let in' or 'say yes to the truth.' A2 learners are also introduced to the past tense 'admitted,' and they learn to double the 't' when spelling it. This is a key spelling rule for this level. They might also encounter the word in simple stories or news headlines. For example, 'The boy admitted eating the cookies.' The focus at A2 is on building confidence with the word in everyday situations. They begin to see that 'admit' is used when something is a little bit difficult to say. It's not just 'saying' something; it's acknowledging something that might be a secret or a mistake. This adds a layer of emotional meaning to their vocabulary. They also learn common phrases like 'I must admit,' which they can use to start a sentence when they want to be honest about their feelings, like 'I must admit, I don't like coffee.'

At the B1 level, 'admit' becomes a very important word for expressing opinions and describing more complex situations. This is the level where learners are expected to know the different grammatical patterns. A B1 student should be able to use 'admit' with a gerund, like 'She admitted stealing the money,' and understand that 'admit to stealing' is also correct. They use 'admit' to talk about more serious topics, like admitting a mistake at work or admitting a fault in their character. B1 learners also encounter the word in more formal contexts, such as being 'admitted to a hospital' or 'admitted to a university.' They understand that this is the standard way to talk about being accepted into an institution. At this level, the nuance of 'admitting' versus 'saying' becomes clearer. They realize that 'admit' often implies a previous denial or a reluctance to speak. For example, 'He finally admitted the truth' suggests that it took some time or effort for him to say it. B1 students also start to use 'admit' in discussions and debates. They might say, 'I admit that you have a point, but I still disagree.' This shows a higher level of conversational skill, as it allows them to acknowledge another person's view while still holding their own. They also become familiar with the noun form 'admission' and how it relates to the verb, such as 'The price of admission is ten dollars.'

At the B2 level, learners use 'admit' with a high degree of precision and can navigate its more subtle meanings. They are comfortable using it in both formal and informal registers. A B2 speaker might use 'admit' to concede a point in a complex argument, using phrases like 'While I admit the validity of your data, I question your conclusions.' They understand the difference between 'admit,' 'confess,' and 'concede' and can choose the most appropriate word for the situation. In writing, they use 'admit' to introduce counter-arguments or to acknowledge limitations in their own work. For example, 'One must admit that the study has certain limitations.' This shows a sophisticated level of academic awareness. B2 learners are also familiar with more idiomatic uses and collocations, such as 'admit defeat' or 'admit of no delay.' They understand the passive construction 'be admitted to the bar' (for lawyers) or 'be admitted to practice.' They also recognize the word in legal and medical news, understanding the implications of 'admissible evidence' or 'hospital admission rates.' At this level, the learner is not just using the word; they are using it to manage the flow of information and the tone of their communication. They can use 'admit' to show humility, honesty, or professional objectivity. They also understand the social implications of admitting something, such as how it can build or break trust in a relationship or a professional setting.

At the C1 level, the use of 'admit' is nuanced and stylistically varied. Learners at this stage use the word to navigate complex social and professional hierarchies. They might use the formal 'admit of' structure, such as 'The situation admits of no other interpretation,' which conveys a sense of absolute certainty and authority. They are also adept at using 'admit' in the passive voice to create a more objective or formal tone in their writing, such as 'It is generally admitted that...' to introduce a widely accepted fact. C1 learners understand the historical and etymological roots of the word, which helps them appreciate its connection to other words like 'mission,' 'dismiss,' and 'permit.' They can use 'admit' to express subtle shades of meaning, such as 'grudgingly admitting' something to show reluctance, or 'freely admitting' something to show transparency. In professional contexts, they understand the legal and ethical nuances of 'admitting liability' or 'admitting a fault.' They are also sensitive to the cultural contexts in which 'admitting' something is expected or avoided. For example, they might discuss how different cultures view the act of admitting a mistake. Their vocabulary is rich enough that they can use 'admit' as a tool for rhetoric, using it to build a rapport with an audience by acknowledging shared truths or common difficulties. They are also fully aware of the noun forms like 'admittance' (physical entry) versus 'admission' (confession or institutional entry) and use them correctly in all contexts.

At the C2 level, 'admit' is used with the effortless precision of a highly educated native speaker. The learner can use the word in its most abstract and metaphorical senses. They might use it in literary analysis, discussing how a character 'admits a dark truth to themselves,' or in philosophical debates about the nature of 'admissible' knowledge. A C2 speaker is comfortable with the most formal and archaic uses of the word, as well as the most modern slang or jargon. They can use 'admit' to perform complex speech acts, such as 'admitting' a weakness to actually project strength and confidence. In high-level academic or legal writing, they use 'admit' to structure intricate arguments, carefully conceding minor points to strengthen their overall position. They are also aware of the word's role in various professional jargons, from the 'admission' of a patient in a medical emergency to the 'admission' of a new state into a union. They can play with the word's multiple meanings for rhetorical effect, perhaps using it in a pun or a sophisticated metaphor. At this level, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument for precise, impactful communication. They understand the psychological depth of 'admission' and can describe the complex motivations behind why someone might choose to admit or deny something. Their mastery of the word is complete, allowing them to use it with total control over tone, register, and impact.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

admit in 30 Seconds

To admit is to acknowledge a truth, often a difficult or hidden one, showing honesty and vulnerability in personal or professional communication.
It also means to grant entry or access to a physical space, an institution like a university, or a professional body.
Grammatically, it can be followed by a 'that' clause, a gerund (-ing), or the preposition 'to' followed by a gerund.
Commonly used in legal, medical, and academic contexts, it serves as a formal way to discuss acceptance and confession.

The verb admit is a multifaceted English word that primarily functions in two distinct semantic spheres: the acknowledgment of truth and the granting of access. At its core, to admit something is to allow it to enter—whether that 'it' is a person entering a physical building or a difficult truth entering a conversation. In the context of confession, it involves a psychological transition from denial or silence to open acknowledgment. This is often used when the information being shared is personal, embarrassing, or legally incriminating. For example, a person might admit to a mistake at work, which requires a level of vulnerability and honesty. In the second sense, admission refers to the physical or metaphorical act of letting someone into a space, such as a theater, a university, or an exclusive club. This usage is more transactional and formal, often involving tickets, qualifications, or specific permissions. Understanding the nuance between these two meanings is essential for achieving B1 level proficiency and beyond, as the word appears frequently in both casual dialogue and formal documentation.

Confession Context: When someone finally tells the truth about something they were hiding, they admit their actions. This often follows a period of questioning or internal struggle.

After hours of questioning, the suspect finally decided to admit that he had been at the scene of the crime.

In social settings, the word is used to build trust. If a friend says, 'I have to admit, I didn't like the movie,' they are being honest about a subjective opinion that might be unpopular. This usage softens the blow of a negative statement by framing it as a personal confession. Furthermore, in institutional settings, 'admit' is the standard term for hospitalization. When a patient is 'admitted to the hospital,' it means they have been formally accepted for treatment and assigned a bed. This specific jargon is vital for medical communication. The word also carries a sense of 'conceding' in an argument. If you are debating a point and your opponent makes a valid claim, you might admit that they have a good point, even if you do not change your overall stance. This demonstrates intellectual honesty and is a key component of advanced rhetorical strategies in English.

Access Context: This refers to the formal permission given to enter a place. It is often seen on signs like 'Admit One' on event tickets.

The security guard refused to admit anyone who did not have a valid identification card.

Culturally, the act of admitting something is often seen as a sign of character. In many English-speaking cultures, there is a proverb that 'a fault confessed is half redressed,' which aligns with the positive social value placed on admitting mistakes. Conversely, refusing to admit a mistake is often viewed as a sign of arrogance or weakness. In the legal system, 'admitting evidence' is a technical process where a judge decides if a piece of information can be used in a trial. If evidence is 'admissible,' it means it is allowed to be heard by the jury. This highlights the word's connection to rules and boundaries. Whether it is a physical door or a conceptual boundary of truth, 'admit' is the gatekeeper verb. It facilitates the movement from the outside to the inside, from the hidden to the revealed, and from the excluded to the included.

I must admit that I was quite surprised by the sudden change in the weather.

The university will admit only the top five percent of applicants this year.

She would never admit defeat, even when the situation seemed completely hopeless.

Medical Usage: To be admitted to a hospital means to stay overnight for treatment, as opposed to being an outpatient.

In summary, 'admit' is a versatile verb that bridges the gap between physical entry and psychological honesty. Whether you are letting a guest into your home, a student into a college, or a truth into your heart, you are performing an act of admission. Its usage ranges from the most casual admissions of personal taste to the most formal legal and medical procedures, making it a cornerstone of effective English communication.

Mastering the usage of admit requires an understanding of its various grammatical patterns. Unlike simpler verbs, 'admit' can be followed by several different structures depending on the intended meaning and the level of formality. The most common pattern for expressing a confession is 'admit + that-clause.' For instance, 'He admitted that he had forgotten the meeting.' This structure is clear and works in almost any context. However, a more sophisticated pattern often used by native speakers is 'admit + -ing form' (the gerund). You might say, 'She admitted breaking the vase.' It is important to note that you can also insert the preposition 'to' before the gerund: 'She admitted to breaking the vase.' Both are correct, though the version with 'to' can sometimes feel slightly more formal or emphatic. Understanding these variations allows a learner to sound more natural and precise.

Pattern: Admit + That-Clause: Used to state a fact or a situation that one is acknowledging. Example: 'I admit that I was wrong.'

The politician finally had to admit that the policy had failed to produce results.

When 'admit' is used in the sense of allowing entry, it usually takes a direct object. For example, 'The ticket admits two people.' In this case, the verb acts directly on the noun. In passive constructions, which are very common in formal contexts, we often see 'be admitted to.' For example, 'He was admitted to the prestigious academy.' This passive form shifts the focus from the person granting entry to the person receiving it. In medical contexts, you will almost always hear 'He was admitted to the hospital' rather than 'The hospital admitted him,' as the patient is the primary subject of the medical narrative. Another important nuance is the use of 'admit' with 'of.' The phrase 'admit of' is quite formal and means 'to allow for' or 'to leave room for.' For example, 'The rules admit of no exceptions.' This is a C1/C2 level structure that adds a layer of absolute authority to a statement.

Pattern: Admit + Gerund (-ing): Used to acknowledge an action. Example: 'He admitted stealing the money.'

They admitted making a significant error in the final calculations of the project.

Furthermore, 'admit' is frequently paired with adverbs to change the tone of the confession. 'Grudgingly admit' suggests that the person did not want to tell the truth but felt they had to. 'Freely admit' suggests total honesty and lack of hesitation. 'Frankly admit' adds a layer of directness and sincerity. For example, 'I freely admit that I have a lot to learn.' This combination of verb and adverb is a powerful tool for expressing attitude and emotion. In academic writing, 'admit' is often used to acknowledge a limitation in one's research. A researcher might write, 'It must be admitted that the sample size was small.' This use of the passive 'it must be admitted' is a standard way to introduce a concession while maintaining an objective, professional tone. By mastering these patterns, you move from simply knowing the definition to being able to use the word with the flexibility of a native speaker.

The museum admits children under the age of five for free.

He was admitted to the bar in 1995, allowing him to practice law in the state.

The evidence is so clear that it admits of no other possible explanation.

Pattern: Be Admitted To: Commonly used for hospitals, universities, and professional organizations. Example: 'She was admitted to Harvard.'

In conclusion, the versatility of 'admit' lies in its ability to adapt to different grammatical environments. Whether it is followed by a clause, a gerund, a prepositional phrase, or used in the passive voice, it maintains its core meaning while providing specific details about the nature of the admission. Practice these patterns to enhance your fluency and precision in both spoken and written English.

The word admit is ubiquitous in English, appearing in a wide array of environments from high-stakes legal proceedings to everyday casual conversations. In the realm of news and media, you will frequently hear it in reports about public figures or legal cases. News anchors might say, 'The CEO admitted to knowing about the financial discrepancies months ago.' In this context, the word carries a weight of accountability and scandal. It is the moment of revelation that changes the narrative of a story. Similarly, in crime dramas or real-life court reporting, the 'admission of guilt' is a pivotal moment. You might hear a lawyer argue that a confession should not be 'admitted as evidence' because it was obtained under duress. Here, the word is used in its technical, legal sense, referring to what is allowed to be part of the official record. This highlights the word's role in the architecture of truth and justice.

In the News: Used when reporting on confessions, policy changes, or institutional entries. Example: 'The government admitted the error.'

The company finally admitted that the product was defective after thousands of complaints.

In educational and professional contexts, 'admit' is the standard terminology for acceptance. Every year, thousands of students wait for 'admission letters' from colleges. You will hear students ask each other, 'Did you get admitted to your first-choice school?' This usage is filled with hope and social mobility. In the workplace, 'admitting a mistake' is often discussed in the context of leadership and growth. Management books and seminars emphasize the importance of a culture where employees feel safe to admit when they have made an error. In this environment, the word is associated with 'psychological safety' and 'continuous improvement.' It is not just about confessing a fault; it is about the first step toward fixing a problem. You might hear a manager say, 'I admit I didn't handle that meeting well,' which serves as a model for their team to be honest and self-reflective.

In Healthcare: Used specifically for the process of taking a patient into a hospital for an overnight stay. Example: 'He was admitted for observation.'

The doctor decided to admit her to the cardiology ward for further testing.

Socially, 'admit' is used to share personal feelings or secrets. Friends might say, 'I have to admit, I'm a bit nervous about the date tonight.' Here, it functions as a bridge to intimacy, signaling that the speaker is about to reveal something true and perhaps a little vulnerable. In the world of entertainment, 'admit one' is printed on millions of tickets for movies, concerts, and sports events. You hear it at the entrance of venues: 'This ticket admits one adult.' It is the language of access and exclusion. Even in sports, a commentator might say, 'The coach had to admit that the other team was simply better today.' This acknowledges the reality of a situation without necessarily liking it. Whether in a courtroom, a classroom, a hospital, or a coffee shop, 'admit' is a word that marks the transition from the private to the public, and from the outside to the inside.

I have to admit, your cooking has improved significantly since the last time I visited.

The theater won't admit anyone after the performance has already started.

He admitted to being a huge fan of 1980s pop music, despite his tough exterior.

In Sports: Used when players or coaches acknowledge a defeat or a superior opponent. Example: 'They admitted they were outplayed.'

From the formal 'admission of guilt' to the casual 'I must admit,' this word is a staple of English across all domains. It is a word that demands honesty and facilitates entry, making it essential for navigating the social and professional landscapes of the English-speaking world.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with admit involves the choice of the following verb form. Many students mistakenly use the infinitive (to + verb) after 'admit,' saying things like 'He admitted to steal the money.' This is incorrect. In English, 'admit' must be followed by either a gerund (the -ing form) or a 'that' clause. The correct versions would be 'He admitted stealing the money' or 'He admitted that he stole the money.' If you want to use the preposition 'to,' it must still be followed by the gerund: 'He admitted to stealing the money.' This is a tricky point because many other verbs of reporting, like 'claim' or 'promise,' do use the infinitive. Remembering that 'admit' is an '-ing' verb is a major step toward grammatical accuracy. Another common confusion arises between 'admit' and 'confess.' While they are often interchangeable, 'confess' usually carries a stronger moral or religious weight, whereas 'admit' can be used for simple facts or concessions in an argument.

Mistake: Admit + Infinitive: Incorrect: 'She admitted to go there.' Correct: 'She admitted going there' or 'She admitted to going there.'

You should never say 'I admit to be wrong'; instead, say 'I admit that I am wrong.'

Another area of confusion is the difference between 'admit' and 'allow.' While both can mean to let someone in, 'admit' is much more formal and often implies a process or a specific right of entry. You 'allow' someone to borrow your pen, but a university 'admits' you to a program. Using 'admit' in very casual situations where 'let' or 'allow' is more appropriate can sound overly stiff. For example, 'I will admit you into my room' sounds like a formal decree, whereas 'I'll let you into my room' is natural. Conversely, using 'let' in a formal context like 'The hospital let him' instead of 'The hospital admitted him' sounds unprofessional. It is also important to avoid overusing the phrase 'I must admit.' While it is a great conversational tool, using it in every other sentence can make you sound repetitive or as if you are constantly hiding something. Use it sparingly for emphasis when you are truly being honest about a subjective point.

Mistake: Confusing Admit and Accept: Incorrect: 'I admit your apology.' Correct: 'I accept your apology.' (You admit a mistake, you accept an apology).

He wouldn't admit that he needed help, even though he was clearly struggling with the workload.

A subtle mistake involves the use of 'admit' in the passive voice. While 'he was admitted to the hospital' is perfect, saying 'the truth was admitted by him' is grammatically correct but stylistically weak and rarely used. In English, we prefer the active voice for confessions: 'He admitted the truth.' Another common pitfall is the misuse of 'admit of.' As mentioned before, this is a very formal phrase meaning 'to allow for.' Some learners try to use it in place of the regular 'admit,' saying 'This situation admits of a mistake.' This is incorrect. 'Admit of' is almost exclusively used with abstract nouns like 'doubt,' 'delay,' 'exception,' or 'interpretation.' For example, 'The contract admits of no ambiguity.' Using it outside of these specific contexts will sound strange to native speakers. Finally, ensure you don't confuse 'admit' with 'acknowledge.' While similar, 'acknowledge' is often used for simply noticing or confirming receipt of something (like an email), whereas 'admit' usually involves a degree of reluctance or the revelation of a hidden truth.

It is a common error to say 'The ticket admits to the park'—it should be 'The ticket admits you to the park.'

Don't say 'He admitted to have lied'; say 'He admitted to having lied' or 'He admitted that he lied.'

The phrase 'I admit my defeat' is less common than 'I admit defeat' (without the 'my').

Spelling Alert: Double the 't' when adding suffixes: admit -> admitted, admitting, admittance.

By paying attention to these grammatical structures and subtle differences in meaning, you can avoid the most common traps and use 'admit' with confidence and precision in any situation.

To truly master the English language, it is important to know not just one word, but a cluster of related words that allow for precise expression. Admit has several synonyms, each with its own unique flavor and context. 'Confess' is perhaps the closest synonym, but it often implies a more serious or formal admission, such as confessing a crime to the police or a sin to a priest. 'Acknowledge' is a more neutral alternative, often used when simply recognizing a fact or the existence of something. For example, you might acknowledge someone's hard work, which is positive, whereas admitting someone's hard work sounds like you were previously trying to deny it. 'Concede' is another powerful alternative, specifically used in the context of an argument or a competition. When you concede, you admit that your opponent is right or has won, often with a sense of giving in. Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the right word for the right moment.

Admit vs. Confess: 'Admit' is general; 'Confess' is for serious wrongdoings or deeply personal secrets.

While he admitted making a mistake, he refused to confess to the actual crime.

In the context of allowing entry, 'admit' can be replaced by 'let in,' 'allow entry,' or 'grant access.' 'Let in' is the most informal and common in daily speech. 'Grant access' is highly formal and often used in technical or security contexts, such as 'The system granted access to the user.' 'Accept' is another related word, particularly in the context of universities or organizations. While a university 'admits' you (the process), they also 'accept' you (the decision). In many cases, these are used interchangeably, but 'admission' is the formal noun for the whole process. Another interesting synonym is 'own up to.' This is a phrasal verb that is very common in informal British and American English. It means to admit that you have done something wrong, often something relatively minor. For example, 'Who is going to own up to breaking the remote?' This sounds much more natural in a family setting than 'Who will admit to breaking the remote?'

Admit vs. Acknowledge: 'Acknowledge' is often about recognizing receipt or existence; 'Admit' is about accepting a truth you might have hidden.

Please acknowledge receipt of this email, even if you don't admit to the charges mentioned within it.

For the more academic or formal registers, consider 'avow' or 'profess.' To 'avow' is to admit or state something openly and boldly. To 'profess' can mean to admit to a feeling or belief, though it sometimes carries a hint that the feeling might not be entirely genuine. For example, 'He professed his love, but his actions said otherwise.' On the opposite side, the antonyms of 'admit' include 'deny,' 'reject,' 'exclude,' and 'refute.' 'Deny' is the direct opposite of admitting a truth. 'Exclude' is the direct opposite of admitting someone to a place. 'Refute' is a stronger word than deny; it means to prove that something is wrong. By learning these alternatives, you can tailor your language to the specific level of formality and the exact shade of meaning you wish to convey, making your English more expressive and sophisticated.

The defendant continued to deny all charges, refusing to admit even the smallest involvement.

The club decided to exclude anyone who had not paid their annual membership fees.

It is difficult to concede a point when you feel so passionately about your own position.

Admit vs. Own Up: 'Own up' is casual and common in British English for minor mistakes.

In conclusion, while 'admit' is a fantastic and versatile word, your English will truly shine when you can navigate the subtle differences between it and its many synonyms and antonyms. Choose 'confess' for gravity, 'acknowledge' for neutrality, 'concede' for debate, and 'own up' for casual honesty.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The 'mit' root in 'admit' is the same root found in 'missile' (something sent) and 'mission' (being sent to do a task). So, admitting someone is literally 'sending' them into a place.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ədˈmɪt/

US /ədˈmɪt/

The stress is on the second syllable: ad-MIT.

Rhymes With

commit submit permit omit transmit remit unfit acquit

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'a' in the first syllable too strongly (like 'cat'). It should be a soft 'uh'.
Forgetting to double the 't' sound in 'admitted'.
Stress on the first syllable (AD-mit), which is incorrect for the verb.
Mixing up the 'i' sound with an 'ee' sound.
Dropping the final 't' sound entirely.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common, but its different meanings and formal structures like 'admit of' can be challenging.

Writing 4/5

Using the correct verb patterns (gerund vs. that-clause) requires careful attention.

Speaking 3/5

The phrase 'I must admit' is easy to use, but confessing mistakes is socially complex.

Listening 2/5

The word is usually clear in speech, though the 't' can be soft in some accents.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

say tell enter truth mistake

Learn Next

confess acknowledge concede deny exclude

Advanced

admissible admittance avow profess refute

Grammar to Know

Gerund vs. Infinitive

Correct: 'Admit doing'. Incorrect: 'Admit to do'.

Passive Voice with Institutions

'He was admitted to the hospital' is more common than 'The hospital admitted him'.

That-Clause for Facts

'I admit that the weather is bad' is used for acknowledging a situation.

Preposition 'to' with Gerund

'He admitted to stealing' is a common and correct variation.

Doubling Consonants

Double the 't' in 'admitted' and 'admitting' because the last syllable is stressed.

Examples by Level

This ticket admits one person to the zoo.

Ce billet permet à une personne d'entrer au zoo.

Simple present tense with a direct object.

I admit I broke the glass.

J'admets avoir cassé le verre.

Admit followed by a simple clause.

The sign says 'Admit One'.

Le panneau indique 'Entrée pour une personne'.

Imperative-style usage on a sign.

Do you admit you were late?

Admets-tu que tu étais en retard ?

Question form with 'do'.

They admit children for free.

Ils laissent entrer les enfants gratuitement.

Present tense with a direct object.

He will not admit his mistake.

Il n'admettra pas son erreur.

Future tense with 'will not'.

Please admit that you are wrong.

S'il te plaît, admets que tu as tort.

Polite imperative form.

The door is open to admit the guests.

La porte est ouverte pour laisser entrer les invités.

Infinitive of purpose: 'to admit'.

She admitted that she didn't like the food.

Elle a admis qu'elle n'aimait pas la nourriture.

Past tense 'admitted' with a 'that' clause.

The museum admits students at a lower price.

Le musée admet les étudiants à un prix inférieur.

Present tense with a prepositional phrase.

I must admit, I am very tired today.

Je dois admettre que je suis très fatigué aujourd'hui.

Common phrase 'I must admit' used as a filler.

He admitted taking the last cookie.

Il a admis avoir pris le dernier biscuit.

Admit followed by a gerund (-ing).

They were admitted to the party without an invitation.

Ils ont été admis à la fête sans invitation.

Passive voice: 'were admitted'.

Does he admit to being the leader?

Admet-il être le chef ?

Admit + to + gerund.

We admitted our failure and started again.

Nous avons admis notre échec et avons recommencé.

Past tense with a direct object.

The hospital admitted him for a check-up.

L'hôpital l'a admis pour un bilan de santé.

Active voice in a medical context.

He finally admitted to stealing the money from the safe.

Il a finalement avoué avoir volé l'argent du coffre-fort.

Admit + to + gerund.

The university will admit only the most qualified candidates.

L'université n'admettra que les candidats les plus qualifiés.

Future tense with 'only' for emphasis.

I admit that I haven't been entirely honest with you.

J'admets que je n'ai pas été tout à fait honnête avec toi.

Admit + that-clause with present perfect.

She was admitted to the hospital with severe chest pains.

Elle a été admise à l'hôpital avec de fortes douleurs thoraciques.

Passive voice in a formal medical context.

The judge refused to admit the evidence in court.

Le juge a refusé d'admettre la preuve au tribunal.

Infinitive after 'refused'.

You have to admit that the plan was actually quite clever.

Tu dois admettre que le plan était en fait assez ingénieux.

Modal 'have to' + admit.

He admitted making a mistake in the final report.

Il a admis avoir fait une erreur dans le rapport final.

Admit + gerund.

The club doesn't admit anyone under the age of eighteen.

Le club n'admet personne de moins de dix-huit ans.

Negative present tense with a direct object.

The government admitted that the new tax policy was a failure.

Le gouvernement a admis que la nouvelle politique fiscale était un échec.

Admit + that-clause in a formal political context.

He was admitted to the bar after years of rigorous study.

Il a été admis au barreau après des années d'études rigoureuses.

Passive voice with a specific professional idiom.

I freely admit that I am not an expert in this field.

J'admets volontiers que je ne suis pas un expert dans ce domaine.

Adverb 'freely' modifying 'admit'.

The facts admit of no other possible conclusion.

Les faits ne permettent aucune autre conclusion possible.

Formal 'admit of' structure.

She grudgingly admitted that her rival had performed better.

Elle a admis à contrecœur que sa rivale avait mieux réussi.

Adverb 'grudgingly' showing attitude.

The hospital's policy is to admit patients regardless of their ability to pay.

La politique de l'hôpital est d'admettre les patients sans tenir compte de leur capacité à payer.

Infinitive as part of a noun phrase.

He admitted to having felt a sense of relief when the project ended.

Il a admis avoir ressenti un sentiment de soulagement à la fin du projet.

Admit + to + perfect gerund (having felt).

The theater will not admit latecomers until the intermission.

Le théâtre n'admettra pas les retardataires avant l'entracte.

Future tense with a specific temporal condition.

It must be admitted that the initial hypothesis was somewhat flawed.

Il faut admettre que l'hypothèse initiale était quelque peu erronée.

Passive 'it must be admitted' for academic objectivity.

The treaty admits of no exceptions regarding environmental protection.

Le traité ne permet aucune exception en ce qui concerne la protection de l'environnement.

Formal 'admit of' with an abstract noun.

He was admitted to the inner circle of the organization's leadership.

Il a été admis dans le cercle restreint de la direction de l'organisation.

Passive voice with a metaphorical sense of entry.

She frankly admitted her role in the controversial decision.

Elle a franchement admis son rôle dans la décision controversée.

Adverb 'frankly' for directness.

The evidence, though circumstantial, was admitted by the presiding judge.

Les preuves, bien que circonstancielles, ont été admises par le juge président.

Passive voice in a technical legal context.

He would never admit defeat, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Il n'admettrait jamais la défaite, même face à des chances accablantes.

Conditional 'would' with 'never' and a direct object.

The architecture of the building admits a great deal of natural light.

L'architecture du bâtiment laisse entrer beaucoup de lumière naturelle.

Metaphorical use of 'admit' for physical properties.

They admitted to being somewhat overwhelmed by the sudden fame.

Ils ont admis être quelque peu dépassés par la célébrité soudaine.

Admit + to + being (gerund of 'be').

The complexity of the human psyche admits of no simple categorization.

La complexité de la psyché humaine ne permet aucune catégorisation simple.

Highly formal 'admits of' in a philosophical context.

One is forced to admit that the geopolitical landscape has shifted irrevocably.

On est forcé d'admettre que le paysage géopolitique a changé de façon irrévocable.

Impersonal 'one' with a passive-style construction.

The poem admits of multiple interpretations, each as valid as the last.

Le poème permet de multiples interprétations, chacune aussi valable que la précédente.

Formal 'admits of' in literary criticism.

He was admitted to the fellowship of the Royal Society, a crowning achievement.

Il a été admis comme membre de la Royal Society, un couronnement.

Passive voice for a high-level institutional honor.

She readily admitted that her earlier stance had been somewhat naive.

Elle a admis sans peine que sa position antérieure avait été quelque peu naïve.

Adverb 'readily' showing a lack of resistance.

The valve is designed to admit only a specific volume of gas per second.

La soupape est conçue pour ne laisser passer qu'un volume spécifique de gaz par seconde.

Technical/scientific usage of 'admit'.

The silence in the room admitted of no interruption, so profound was the grief.

Le silence dans la pièce ne permettait aucune interruption, tant le chagrin était profond.

Literary use of 'admitted of' for atmosphere.

He finally admitted his complicity in the scheme, much to the shock of his peers.

Il a finalement admis sa complicité dans le complot, au grand dam de ses pairs.

Direct object 'complicity' in a formal context.

Common Collocations

admit defeat

admit a mistake

admit guilt

admit to hospital

admit liability

freely admit

grudgingly admit

admit of no doubt

admit a patient

refuse to admit

Common Phrases

I must admit

— Used to introduce a statement that is honest and perhaps surprising. It softens the tone of a personal opinion.

I must admit, I wasn't expecting the movie to be so good.

Admit one

— A standard phrase found on tickets, meaning the ticket is valid for the entry of one person.

The ticket stub simply said 'Admit One' in bold letters.

Admit to doing something

— To confess that you have performed a specific action, often a negative one.

He admitted to stealing the car.

Admit that

— A common way to introduce a fact or truth that you are acknowledging.

I admit that I made a mistake.

Be admitted to

— To be formally accepted into an institution or place.

She was admitted to the university last week.

Admit of

— A very formal phrase meaning to allow for the possibility of something.

The rules admit of no exceptions.

Admit someone into

— To physically let someone enter a room or a private space.

The guard admitted them into the private gallery.

Frankly admit

— To confess something in a very direct and honest way.

I frankly admit that I don't know the answer.

Ready to admit

— To be willing to acknowledge a truth without much struggle.

He was ready to admit his fault as soon as he was caught.

Refuse to admit

— To stubbornly deny something that is clearly true.

She refused to admit she was wrong, even with the proof in front of her.

Often Confused With

admit vs confess

Confess is for serious crimes or sins; admit is for any truth or mistake.

admit vs acknowledge

Acknowledge is just recognizing something exists; admit implies some reluctance.

admit vs accept

Accept is receiving something; admit is letting something in or saying it's true.

Idioms & Expressions

"Admit defeat"

— To accept that you have been unsuccessful or that you cannot win.

After hours of trying to fix the computer, I finally had to admit defeat.

General

"Admit of no delay"

— Used to say that something is extremely urgent and must be done immediately.

The situation is critical and admits of no delay.

Formal

"Admit of no doubt"

— To be so clear or certain that it is impossible to disagree with.

The DNA evidence admits of no doubt regarding the identity of the suspect.

Formal

"Admit to the bar"

— To be officially licensed to practice law as an attorney.

She was admitted to the bar after passing the state exam.

Professional

"Admit someone to bail"

— A legal term meaning to allow a person to be released from custody after paying a sum of money.

The judge decided to admit the defendant to bail.

Legal

"Admit the possibility"

— To acknowledge that something might happen or might be true.

We must admit the possibility that the project will fail.

General

"Admit a fault"

— To confess to a mistake or a negative character trait.

Admitting a fault is the first step toward self-improvement.

General

"Admit no one"

— A formal way to say that entry is strictly forbidden to everyone.

The sign on the laboratory door read 'Admit No One'.

Formal

"Admit into one's confidence"

— To share a secret or private information with someone, trusting them.

He admitted her into his confidence regarding the merger.

Literary

"Admit a claim"

— To acknowledge that a request or a statement of fact is valid.

The insurance company finally admitted the claim.

Business/Legal

Easily Confused

admit vs Admittance

Both come from 'admit'.

Admittance is only for physical entry (e.g., 'No admittance'). Admission is for confessions and institutional entry.

The sign said 'No Admittance', but his admission to the college was confirmed.

admit vs Allow

Both mean to let something happen.

Allow is general; admit is formal or involves a truth.

I allow my kids to play, but the school only admits students with uniforms.

admit vs Concede

Both mean to admit something is true.

Concede is specifically for giving in during an argument or losing a game.

He had to concede that his opponent was faster.

admit vs Grant

Both involve giving permission.

Grant is for official rights; admit is for entry or truth.

The king granted him land and admitted him to the royal court.

admit vs Permit

Both mean to allow.

Permit is about rules and laws; admit is about entry and truth.

The permit allows you to build, but the club won't admit you.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + admit + noun

The ticket admits one.

Subject + admit + that-clause

I admit that I am late.

Subject + admit + gerund (-ing)

He admitted breaking the window.

Subject + admit + to + gerund

She admitted to lying.

Subject + be admitted to + noun

He was admitted to the university.

It must be admitted that + clause

It must be admitted that the results were poor.

Subject + admit of + noun

The case admits of no doubt.

Subject + readily/frankly + admit + clause

She readily admitted her mistake.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

He admitted to go to the party. → He admitted going to the party.
You cannot use 'to + infinitive' after admit. You must use the gerund (-ing).
I admit your apology. → I accept your apology.
You admit a mistake or a truth, but you accept an apology or a gift.
The sign said 'No Admission'. → The sign said 'No Admittance'.
For physical entry to a room, 'admittance' is the correct technical term.
She admited she was wrong. → She admitted she was wrong.
You must double the 't' in the past tense of admit.
This situation admits a mistake. → This situation admits of no mistakes.
The phrase 'admit of' is a specific formal structure meaning 'to allow for'.

Tips

Use the -ing form

Always remember that 'admit' is followed by the -ing form (gerund), not the infinitive. Say 'admitted going' not 'admitted to go'.

Double the T

When you add -ed or -ing to 'admit', you must double the 't'. So it becomes 'admitted' and 'admitting'.

Softening Opinions

Use 'I must admit' to introduce an opinion that might surprise someone. It makes you sound more relatable.

Admission vs Admittance

Use 'admission' for most things, including university and confessions. Save 'admittance' for signs on doors.

Admitting Mistakes

In a professional setting, admitting a mistake quickly is usually better than trying to hide it. Use 'I admit my error'.

Admitting Evidence

In a legal context, 'admit' means the judge allows the information to be used. This is a very specific, technical use.

Hospital Admission

Being 'admitted' to a hospital means staying overnight. If you just visit for an hour, you are not 'admitted'.

Conceding Points

In an essay, use 'admit' to show you have considered the other side of the argument. It makes your writing stronger.

Admit of

Use 'admit of' only in very formal writing to mean 'allow for'. It's a great way to sound more advanced.

Stress the end

When listening, remember the stress is on the 'MIT' part of the word. This helps you distinguish it from other words.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Admit' as 'Add-it' to the truth. When you admit something, you add it to the conversation so everyone knows it's true. Or think of 'Admission' at a 'Mission'—you need to be admitted to enter the mission building.

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing at a large wooden door. On one side, it's dark (the secret), and on the other, it's light (the truth). When they 'admit' the truth, they open the door and let the light in.

Word Web

Truth Entry Hospital Confess Ticket Mistake University Evidence

Challenge

Try to use 'admit' in three different ways today: once for a personal opinion ('I must admit...'), once for a mistake ('I admit I...'), and once for a place ('I was admitted to...').

Word Origin

The word 'admit' comes from the Latin verb 'admittere', which is composed of 'ad-' (meaning 'to') and 'mittere' (meaning 'to send' or 'to let go'). It entered the English language via Old French 'admettre' in the late 14th century. Originally, it meant to let in or to allow to enter a place or a position.

Original meaning: To let in, to allow to enter, or to permit.

Indo-European (Latin -> Romance -> English)

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking someone to 'admit' something, as it can sound accusatory. In a professional setting, 'acknowledge' might be more polite.

In the UK and US, 'I must admit' is a polite way to introduce a potentially unpopular opinion without being rude.

The 'Admit One' ticket is an iconic image in American cinema culture. The phrase 'Admit nothing, deny everything, make counter-accusations' is a famous (though cynical) piece of advice in politics and spy fiction. In the song 'I Admit' by various artists, the word is used as a refrain for personal confessions.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal Proceedings

admit evidence
admit guilt
admissible in court
admit liability

Education

admission requirements
be admitted to college
admission office
admit students

Healthcare

admit a patient
hospital admission
be admitted for observation
emergency admission

Social Situations

I must admit
admit a mistake
admit defeat
freely admit

Events and Venues

admit one
admission fee
no admittance
admit latecomers

Conversation Starters

"I must admit, I've never really understood why people like..."

"If you had to admit to one secret hobby, what would it be?"

"Do you find it easy or difficult to admit when you are wrong?"

"Have you ever been admitted to a hospital for something minor?"

"I have to admit, I was quite surprised by the news today. What about you?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to admit a mistake at work or school. How did it feel?

What is something you must admit you are really good at, even if you are usually humble?

Describe the process of being admitted to a school or club you were excited about.

Reflect on a situation where someone refused to admit they were wrong. How did it affect you?

I must admit, my life would be very different if I hadn't...

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is always 'admit doing' or 'admit to doing'. You should never use the infinitive 'to do' directly after admit. For example, 'He admitted stealing' is correct, but 'He admitted to steal' is wrong.

Admission is the most common noun and is used for confessions, entering a university, or the price of a ticket. Admittance is a more formal word used almost exclusively for physical entry into a building or room.

Yes, but it usually implies that you were previously hiding it or didn't want to say it. For example, 'I admit I really like your new car' suggests you might have been jealous or indifferent before.

This is a very formal structure meaning 'to allow for' or 'to leave room for'. It is used with abstract nouns like 'doubt' or 'delay'. For example, 'The situation admits of no delay' means it is very urgent.

The phrase 'admitted to hospital' (without 'the') is very common in British English. In American English, people usually say 'admitted to the hospital'.

The past tense is spelled 'admitted' with two 't's. This is because the stress is on the second syllable of the base word 'admit'.

In most cases, yes. 'Admit' is more common and less intense. Use 'confess' for very serious things like crimes or deep personal secrets.

It means to become a licensed lawyer. The 'bar' refers to the legal profession.

It is actually quite neutral and very common in casual conversation. It helps to make your statements sound more honest and less aggressive.

Yes, in a more formal or technical sense. For example, 'The window was designed to admit fresh air into the room'.