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noun

die Akzeptanz, -en

acceptance

Die Bereitschaft, etwas anzunehmen oder einzusehen, auch wenn es einem vielleicht nicht gefällt.

Definition & meaning

Akzeptanz means acceptance: the willingness to receive, approve of, or recognize something or someone. It can refer to:

  • Approval or agreement, such as acceptance of a proposal.
  • Recognition or social approval, such as acceptance of a person, idea, or change.
  • Willingness to put up with or allow something, such as acceptance of a difficult situation.

Acceptance does not always mean enthusiasm or complete agreement; it can simply mean that something is acknowledged or tolerated.

Grammar & word origin

Akzeptanz is a feminine noun: die Akzeptanz. Its plural, Akzeptanzen, is uncommon; the singular is generally used for the abstract concept.

The word is related to akzeptieren (“to accept”). Its root ultimately comes from Latin acceptare, “to receive willingly.” The ending -anz is used in nouns describing a state or quality.

Synonyms & antonyms

Possible synonyms include:

  • Annahme — “acceptance” or “taking up”; often more neutral and focused on receiving or taking something.
  • Zustimmung — “agreement”; more clearly expresses consent or a positive decision.
  • Billigung — “approval”; usually implies an explicit judgment that something is acceptable.
  • Anerkennung — “recognition” or “appreciation”; emphasizes acknowledging someone or something’s value or legitimacy.
  • Duldung — “toleration”; can suggest allowing something without approving of it.

Possible antonyms include:

  • Ablehnung — “rejection” or “refusal”; the clearest general opposite.
  • Zurückweisung — “rejection” or “dismissal”; emphasizes turning something or someone away.

Common phrases & collocations

  • gesellschaftliche Akzeptanz — social acceptance
  • Akzeptanz finden — to gain acceptance
  • Akzeptanz gewinnen — to gain acceptance or support
  • die Akzeptanz einer Entscheidung — acceptance of a decision
  • mangelnde Akzeptanz — lack of acceptance

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Examples

Die Akzeptanz neuer Ideen ist wichtig für den Fortschritt.noun

The acceptance of new ideas is important for progress.

Die Akzeptanz neuer Ideen nimmt zu.noun

The acceptance of new ideas is increasing.

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