Accept

Definition

Accept is a verb meaning to consent to receive something, agree to a proposal, or acknowledge the truth or validity of something.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əkˈsɛpt/
• Respelling: uhk-SEPT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əkˈsɛpt/
• Respelling: uhk-SEPT

Etymology

The word "accept" originates from the Latin "acceptare," a frequentative form of "accipere," meaning "to take" or "to receive." This Latin term is formed from "ad-" (to) and "capere" (to take). It entered Middle English in the late 14th century, maintaining its original meanings related to receiving and consenting.

Derivatives

• Acceptance (noun)
• Acceptable (adjective)
• Accepted (adjective)
• Accepting (adjective)
• Unacceptable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Receive
• Acknowledge
• Consent

Antonyms

• Reject
• Decline
• Refuse

Usage

The term "accept" is widely used to indicate agreeing to receive something, whether tangible or intangible. For instance, "She was willing to accept the award," or "They accepted the terms and conditions."

Related Terms

• Receive: To be given, presented with, or come into possession of something.
• Acknowledge: To recognize or admit the existence or truth of something.
• Consent: To give permission for something to happen.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To consent to receive something: Indicates a willingness to take or receive what is offered.
  • Example: "They decided to accept the invitation to the conference."
• To agree to a proposal, request, or offer: Implies a decision to agree to terms or conditions proposed by someone else.
  • Example: "She chose to accept the job offer after careful consideration."
• To regard something as proper, normal, or inevitable: Used to indicate the acceptance of reality or circumstances.
  • Example: "He learned to accept the limitations of the situation."
• To believe or acknowledge the truth or validity of something: Refers to recognizing a fact or viewpoint as true.
  • Example: "The community had to accept that changes were necessary."