convincing - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
convincing Word Meanings
- to persuade someone to do or believe something
- to cause someone to accept a point of view
- to make someone feel certain about something
convincing Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
convincing Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈvɪns/
US
/kənˈvɪns/
convincing Word Etymology
con- = together + vincere = to conquer. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person convincing another by jointly conquering doubts with a strong argument.
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 lean in and set my notebook on the table, letting the moment settle. I shift my words toward what matters to them, moving from facts to feelings and watching for a nod. It feels like a careful push and a small adjust in how I hold their attention, steering with calm effort. In real use, this is how you convince someone: you adjust again, keep your tone steady, and let the conversation lead toward agreement.
Real Context
Convince means to cause someone to believe or do something by presenting reasons, evidence, or emotional appeal. It often involves addressing doubts and guiding a listener toward a choice they might resist at first. In English we commonly say convince someone to do something or convince someone that something is true, and we distinguish this from simply persuading someone to agree without changing their underlying view. Learners should pay attention to collocations such as convince someone of, be convinced by, or convince yourself. Tone and credibility matter: strong arguments may backfire if the speaker lacks trust.
Usage Reminders
- Use with to + verb after convince. Avoid vague ‘convince someone’ without object. Distinguish be convinced by from convince someone of. Remember convince of is for beliefs, convince to do is for actions. Watch collocations: convince someone of, be convinced by, convince yourself. Tone matters: strong evidence helps; weak claims can backfire.
Common Misconceptions
- Convince vs persuade: convince implies belief change; persuade can be softer.
- Be convinced by is not the same as convince someone to do something.
- Be convinced that is about belief, not always action.
- Confusing convince with forceful coercion; tone should fit context.
- Misplacing that clause: convince that vs persuade that.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice be convinced by with real sources.
- Mix up examples using convince of and convince to do.
- Record and compare intonation in strong vs soft arguments.
- Note common collocations: convince someone of, be convinced by.
- Practice contrasting convince with persuade.
- Read or listen to debates to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'convincing'?
A.Persuasive
B.Informative
C.Insignificant
D.Aggressive
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'convincing' used correctly?
A.He gave a convincing argument that the earth is flat.
B.She had a convincing amount of rest last night.
C.The teacher was convincing in his confusion.
D.They found a convincing book in the library.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'convincing'?
A.Doubtful
B.Plausible
C.Uncertain
D.Questionable
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'convincing'?
A.Compelling
B.Persuasive
C.Unconvincing
D.Convincing
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would being 'convincing' be important?
A.Watching a movie
B.Forgetting an appointment
C.Sleeping for too long
D.Trying to persuade someone to buy a product
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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