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Convert Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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convert

[kənˈvəːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To change one form of expression into another by calculation.

Synonyms

change, transform, translate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
convert

Used when someone or something changes from one form, function, or system to another. Often used in religious or technical contexts.

  • She decided to convert to Buddhism.
  • The old warehouse was converted into a loft.
transform

Used when something undergoes a complete or major change, often suggesting improvement or enhancement.

  • Regular exercise can transform your body.
  • The small start-up transformed into a large corporation.
change

Used in a general sense when something becomes different. Applicable in a variety of contexts including personal, social, or natural transformations.

  • People change as they grow older.
  • The weather can change quickly in this region.
translate

Used specifically when changing text or speech from one language to another.

  • We need someone to translate this document into French.
  • He can fluently translate between English and Spanish.

Examples of usage

  • Convert the temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius.
  • She converted the measurements from inches to centimeters.
Context #2 | Verb

religion

To bring someone to a particular belief or conviction.

Synonyms

convince, persuade, win over.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
convert

Use this when someone changes their beliefs, religion, or system of thinking. Often refers to profound personal transformation rather than a simple change of opinion.

  • He converted to a new religion after years of soul-searching
  • The organization helps people convert to sustainable practices
persuade

Use this when attempting to make someone do something through reasoning or argument. It often implies a bit more effort and time compared to 'convince'.

  • He persuaded his friend to join him on the adventure
  • The advertisement aims to persuade people to buy the product
convince

This is suitable for situations where you try to get someone to believe that something is true or correct, often using logical and emotional appeal.

  • She convinced her parents to let her go on the trip
  • The lawyer convinced the jury of his client's innocence
win over

This is ideal for informal situations where you aim to make someone like you or agree with you, often using charm or persistent effort.

  • She managed to win over his skeptical parents
  • The politician hopes to win over the undecided voters

Examples of usage

  • The missionary tried to convert the indigenous people to Christianity.
  • She successfully converted her friend to vegetarianism.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

A person who has been persuaded to change their religious faith or other beliefs.

Synonyms

adherent, believer, follower.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
convert

Used when referring to a person who has changed their religious belief or political allegiance.

  • She was a recent convert to Buddhism.
  • He became a convert to the new environmental policies.
follower

Used to describe someone who supports and admires a particular person, often a leader or a public figure.

  • The musician's followers eagerly awaited the new album.
  • He is a follower of Gandhi's teachings.
believer

Used to describe someone who accepts something as true, often in the context of religion or philosophy.

  • She is a believer in the power of positive thinking.
  • Many believers attended the church service.
adherent

Used in formal contexts to describe someone who supports a particular idea or party.

  • He is a strict adherent of traditional cooking methods.
  • Adherents of the new political movement gathered at the rally.

Examples of usage

  • He was a new convert to the world of smartphones.
  • She was a convert to the benefits of organic farming.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computing, 'convert' often refers to changing file formats, like turning a .doc file into a .pdf.
  • Many apps and online tools help convert audio, video, and image files for easier sharing and compatibility.
  • Programming languages have conversion functions that allow data types to change, making coding more flexible.

Science

  • In chemistry, conversion can refer to a reaction where substances change into different products.
  • Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight into electricity, showcasing a powerful transformation in renewable energy.
  • The process of converting food into energy through digestion illustrates how organisms transform resources.

Culture

  • In various religions, conversion signifies a profound change in belief, often leading to a new spiritual community.
  • Musical genres frequently convert styles, blending elements from jazz, rock, and hip-hop to create innovative sounds.
  • Fashion trends often convert old styles into modern adaptations, revitalizing past looks for contemporary audiences.

Economics

  • The concept of currency conversion is vital in global trade, allowing countries to exchange goods with different money.
  • Financial institutions convert investments into different assets for diversification and risk management.
  • Market conversion rates fluctuate, influencing international business and travel costs.

Origin of 'convert'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'convert' comes from the Latin word 'convertere', meaning 'to turn around'.
  • It was first used in English around the late 14th century, primarily in religious contexts.
  • The prefix 'con-' in Latin means 'together', suggesting a transformation that brings something into a new state.

The word 'convert' originated from the Latin word 'convertere', meaning 'to turn around'. It entered the English language in the 14th century with the sense of 'to change the form of'. Over time, it evolved to also include the sense of 'to bring to a new belief or conviction'.

See also: conversion, converted, converter, convertible, convertibly, converting, interconvertible.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,148 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.