“You’re right” are two of the cheapest words to say and two of the most expensive for your ego. Say them anyway.

Those two words cost nothing to pronounce and quite a lot to mean. Conceding feels like handing over ground, especially in front of people, so most of us produce a long qualified version instead. The short one is more persuasive, because it shows you were actually weighing it and can be trusted the next time you disagree.

Say it plainly the next time someone has you, with no rider attached. Then keep talking about the thing rather than defending a position you already gave up.