conviction - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
conviction Word Meanings
- a firmly held belief or opinion
- the state of being convinced
- a legal decision of guilty
conviction Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
conviction Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈvɪkʃən/
US
/kənˈvɪkʃən/
conviction Word Etymology
con- = together + vincere = to conquer. From Latin through Old French to English. Imagine a person standing strong and united in their beliefs, like a fortress against doubts.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tighten my jaw and set my shoulders, letting the doubt fade with a breath. I move a belief from a shaky corner of my mind, pull it into the light, and place it where I can feel its weight. It feels like turning a dial— a small shift that grows steadier as I keep at it. When I speak or decide, that composed stance shows up, and conviction travels from thought into action.
Real Context
Conviction as a noun covers three related ideas: a firmly held belief or opinion, the state of being convinced or convinced about something, and, in law, a formal finding of guilt. In everyday English, people speak of personal convictions that guide actions and values, or a professional conviction about a theory being true. The legal sense appears in phrases like a conviction for a crime, or to convict someone. Learners should note the subtle shift in emphasis among senses: a belief is internal, being convinced is a mental certainty, and a conviction in court carries social and legal consequences.
Usage Reminders
- Use conviction for strong beliefs, not casual opinions.
- Distinguish conviction (belief) from convinced (felt certainty) and convict (legal finding).
- Common collocations: strong/high conviction, moral conviction, hold a conviction.
- Pronounce: con-VIK-tion; stress on the second syllable.
- In legal contexts, be clear that conviction = guilty verdict, not merely an accusation.
Common Misconceptions
- Conviction always means a criminal sentence.
- Convicted and convinced are interchangeable.
- A conviction is just a strong opinion with no lasting impact.
- Confusing 'conviction' with 'convict' (the person or the act of convicting).
- Assuming conviction cannot be about a future belief.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice distinguishing belief vs certainty vs legal verdict in context.
- Learn key collocations: strong conviction, moral conviction, hold a conviction.
- Listen for pronunciation: con-VIC-tion, stress on the second syllable.
- Keep in mind the legal sense when reading news about trials.
- Don’t confuse with convict (the person) or convinced (believed).
- Use varied example sentences to reinforce sense shifts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'conviction' mean?
A.Hesitation
B.Confusion
C.Belief
D.Indecision
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'conviction' used correctly?
A.He was a lazy person with a strong conviction for hard work.
B.I have no conviction in my own abilities.
C.She was filled with uncertainty and conviction about her decision.
D.His conviction wavered as the situation became more difficult.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'conviction'?
A.Certainty
B.Doubt
C.Confusion
D.Disbelief
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'conviction'?
A.Hesitation
B.Confusion
C.Doubt
D.Belief
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where having conviction is important?
A.Standing up for your beliefs in the face of opposition
B.Always second-guessing yourself
C.Being easily swayed by others' opinions
D.Never having a strong opinion about anything
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