13 Phrases to Say “Fair Enough”
“Fair enough” is a highly useful phrase in English. It means you accept or acknowledge the validity, justification, or reasonableness of another person’s point, even if you don’t fully agree or prefer a different option. It’s a key conversational tool for conceding a minor point and moving the discussion forward politely. Mastering these 13 phrases to say “fair enough” will help you sound agreeable, understanding, and fluent when navigating slight disagreements or accepting valid excuses.
We’ve organized these phrases into three main categories: Simple Acknowledgment, Formal Concession, and Enthusiastic Acceptance.
Simple Acknowledgment and Concession ✅
These phrases are casual and common ways to accept a point that is reasonable or justifiable.
1. I see your point. This confirms that you understand the logic behind their statement, which is the core meaning of “fair enough.”
- Meaning: You understand and acknowledge the validity of their argument.
- Example: “I can’t meet today because I have two other deadlines.” — “I see your point. Let’s try tomorrow.”
2. That’s a reasonable request. This is a polite phrase that explicitly validates the person’s statement or demand as being sensible and not extreme.
- Meaning: You agree that their request or excuse is sensible and justifiable.
- Example: “We need an extra two days to review the data.” — “That’s a reasonable request. I’ll update the deadline.”
3. True. A short, casual, and simple confirmation, often used in informal settings to concede a minor fact or observation.
- Meaning: You acknowledge the statement is factually correct.
- Example: “It’s always more difficult to start a project on a Monday.” — “True. The first day back is tough.”
4. That makes sense. This validates the logic of the previous statement, showing that you find the argument or reason to be clear and rational.
- Meaning: You find the statement logical and well-reasoned.
- Example: “We should use the older software because it’s more stable.” — “That makes sense. Stability is key.”
5. I can’t argue with that. This is a slightly informal but clear way to concede that the point the speaker made is factually correct or logically undeniable.
- Meaning: The statement is undeniably correct or justified.
- Example: “The price is higher, but the quality is much better.” — “I can’t argue with that. The quality looks fantastic.”
Formal Concession and Professional Acceptance 🤝
Use these phrases in professional or structured discussions when you need to formally accept a point that affects a plan or decision.
6. Point taken. A concise, professional phrase used to acknowledge that a valid objection or important detail has been raised and accepted.
- Meaning: You have registered and accepted the validity of their specific concern.
- Example: “If we change the design now, the budget will increase.” — “Point taken. We should hold off on that change.”
7. I stand corrected. This phrase is used when someone has provided new information that proves your previous statement or assumption was factually wrong.
- Meaning: You acknowledge that you were factually incorrect based on new evidence.
- Example: “The sales figures dropped in Q2.” — “Actually, they peaked.” — “I stand corrected. I looked at the wrong quarter.”
8. Understood. A simple, professional, and often neutral way to confirm that you have processed and accepted the information or instruction.
- Meaning: You have processed and accepted the information or instruction without necessary disagreement.
- Example: “The client is unavailable until Thursday.” — “Understood. I’ll push back the call.”
9. That’s valid. A polite and direct phrase that confirms the correctness and justification of their statement, often used to accept an emotional or logical objection.
- Meaning: You confirm the statement is well-founded and justifiable.
- Example: “I’m worried about the risk involved in this venture.” — “That’s valid. We need to review the potential losses.”
Enthusiastic Acceptance and Agreement 💡
These phrases are used when the point being conceded is actually a smart or helpful idea, moving beyond simple acknowledgment.
10. You’re absolutely right. This is a stronger form of agreement, confirming the person’s correctness and showing enthusiasm for their accuracy.
- Meaning: You fully agree that the person is correct.
- Example: “We should have consulted the legal team sooner.” — “You’re absolutely right. Let’s call them now.”
11. That’s a good point. This validates the quality of their observation, showing respect for their contribution to the discussion.
- Meaning: You recognize the logic and value of their statement.
- Example: “If we hire an intern, we can offload the administrative tasks.” — “That’s a good point. I hadn’t considered that solution.”
12. I suppose so. This is a slightly weaker, more informal way to concede a point, indicating you accept the logic even if you don’t particularly like the outcome.
- Meaning: A reluctant or mild acceptance of the fact or outcome.
- Example: “We have to wait until the manager approves the final draft.” — “I suppose so. It’s company policy.”
13. Agreed. A short, clear, and direct statement used to confirm consensus, common in both professional and casual environments.
- Meaning: A concise statement of consensus.
- Example: “The next step should be to draft a timeline.” — “Agreed.“
Quick Tips for Conceding Points
- Keep it Brief: The whole point of 13 phrases to say “fair enough” is to concede quickly and move the conversation forward. Don’t elaborate on why you were wrong unless necessary.
- Use “Point Taken” Professionally: The phrase “Point taken” is excellent in meetings because it shows you’ve registered the concern and are ready to proceed.
- Use Body Language: A slight nod combined with the phrase “That makes sense” enhances your sincerity and collaborative tone.
Which phrase is the most formal way to accept a valid objection to a plan?
