What does concessionary mean?
"Concessionary" describes something offered at a reduced price or on specially favorable terms, usually to a defined group of people such as students, senior citizens, children, or those on low incomes. The word appears most often in British English, particularly in the phrase "concessionary fares," which refers to discounted bus, train, or admission prices for eligible travelers. In this context it carries a practical, administrative tone rather than an emotional one: a concessionary ticket is simply one sold under a concession, meaning an agreed allowance made by a provider. The term derives from the Latin root behind "concede" and "concession," reflecting the idea of a formal grant or yielding of a right. In British usage, "concessionary" can also serve as a noun for a person who qualifies for these reduced rates. Outside Britain, speakers tend to prefer plainer alternatives like "discounted" or "reduced-fare," making "concessionary" a distinctly useful word for anyone navigating British transport systems, museums, or event pricing.
Offered at a reduced price or on special favorable terms, typically for a group such as students, seniors, or the unemployed.
"She renewed her concessionary bus pass at the council office."
(Chiefly British) A person who is entitled to buy something at a reduced price or on favorable terms.
"Children aged five and under count as concessionaries on the tour."
This noun sense is largely confined to British English.
Applies only to the noun sense meaning a person entitled to reduced rates; the adjective has no plural form.
"The museum admits students and seniors as concessionaries at half price."
In Britain, 'concessionary fare' isn't just a discount — it's the official term for millions of free bus passes that keep pensioners moving.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of concessionary
"Concessionary" comes from "concession," borrowed into English from the Latin "concessio," itself formed from "concedere" — "to yield, grant, or give way" — a compound of "con-" (together) and "cedere" (to go, yield). The same Latin verb gives English its wider family of "cede"-words, including "accede," "secede," and "precede." The adjective developed in English to describe prices or terms granted as a concession, becoming especially established in British transport and ticketing vocabulary.
Related word forms
How concessionary is actually used
The word is common in British public-transport and ticketing contexts; American English more often uses "reduced fare," "discount," or "senior/student rate" instead. The noun sense (a person eligible for such rates) exists mainly in British English.
Easily confused with concessionary
"Conciliatory" describes behavior intended to placate or make peace with someone, whereas "concessionary" relates to reduced prices or terms granted as a concession.