Conviction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
conviction
[kษnหvษชkสษn ]
Definitions
legal
A formal declaration by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge in a court of law that someone is guilty of a criminal offense.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He had a previous conviction for a similar offense.
- She was appealing against her conviction for murder.
belief
A firmly held belief or opinion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conviction |
Used when someone is strongly persuaded or firmly believes in a particular idea, often with a connotation of moral or ethical grounding.
|
| belief |
A general term for acceptance that something exists or is true, especially without proof. It can be used in both minor and significant matters.
|
| certainty |
Appropriate when expressing a high level of confidence about something being true or guaranteed, often used in factual or assured statements.
|
| faith |
Often related to a strong religious or spiritual trust, or a deep confidence in something or someone without requiring evidence.
|
Examples of usage
- His conviction that the death was no accident never wavered.
- She spoke with great conviction about the need for change.
strong belief
The quality of showing that one is firmly convinced of what one believes or says.
Synonyms
assurance, determination, persuasion.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conviction |
Used when describing a strong belief or certainty, often in a moral or ethical context, as well as a legal context where a person is found guilty.
|
| determination |
Best for expressing a firm decision or resolved purpose, often used to describe someone's focus and drive to achieve a goal.
|
| persuasion |
Suitable when talking about the act of convincing someone to do or believe something, generally in debate, marketing, or influence contexts.
|
| assurance |
Appropriate when giving someone confidence or certainty about a situation, often used in customer service, formal agreements, or support contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- He argued with conviction and passion.
- Her conviction shone through in her speech.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, a conviction refers to being found guilty of a crime by a court of law.
- Convictions can lead to various penalties, including fines, community service, or imprisonment.
- A criminal record shows a person's convictions, affecting employment and other opportunities.
Psychology
- Holding strong convictions can influence decision-making and behavior, often aligning actions with personal values.
- Psychologists study the impact of conviction on cognitive dissonance, where conflicting beliefs can cause mental discomfort.
- Convictions can enhance motivation, encouraging individuals to pursue their goals and ideals fervently.
Pop Culture
- Many stories and films portray protagonists who face challenges to their convictions, highlighting themes of integrity and resilience.
- Conflicting convictions often serve as a major plot device in literature, showcasing moral dilemmas and personal growth.
- Famous figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malala Yousafzai are celebrated for their unyielding convictions in the face of adversity.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have long debated the nature of conviction, questioning whether beliefs must be rational to be valid.
- Some argue that unwavering convictions can lead to blind faith, while others see them as a foundation for ethical behavior.
- Existentialists emphasize the importance of personal conviction in creating oneโs own meaning and purpose in life.
Origin of 'conviction'
Main points about word origin
- 'Conviction' comes from the Latin word 'convictio', which means 'to conquer or overcome'.
- The term has evolved through Middle English and Old French to its modern form, reflecting its roots in strength and certainty.
- It first entered the English language in the late 14th century.
The word 'conviction' originated from the Latin word 'convictio' which means 'proof, refutation'. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent a strong belief or the act of being found guilty in a court of law. The concept of conviction has been integral to legal systems around the world for centuries, serving as a cornerstone of justice and accountability.
See also: convict, convictions, convicts.