Convincing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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convincing
[kənˈvɪnsɪŋ ]
Definitions
argument
Capable of causing someone to believe that something is true or real.
Synonyms
believable, compelling, credible, persuasive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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convincing |
Used when something or someone is able to make you believe that something is true or real through coherent arguments or evidence.
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persuasive |
Refers to the ability to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoning or the use of charm.
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compelling |
Applies when something is so strong or forceful that it demands attention or action, can also imply an emotional impact.
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credible |
Denotes something that is worthy of belief or trust; it generally implies reliability and trustworthiness.
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believable |
Refers to something that is credible or realistic enough to be accepted as true.
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Examples of usage
- It was a convincing argument that persuaded me to change my mind.
- Her convincing performance in the play earned her a standing ovation.
- The evidence presented at the trial was not convincing enough to convict the defendant.
appearance
Appearing to be true or real.
Synonyms
authentic, credible, plausible, realistic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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convincing |
Utilized when you need to describe something that has a strong impact and makes others believe or accept an idea or argument.
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authentic |
Appropriate for describing something that is genuine, real or true to its original form, especially in relation to cultural or historical contexts.
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realistic |
Ideal for situations where something closely resembles real life, or when providing expectations that are reasonable and achievable.
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plausible |
Used to describe something that appears reasonable or probable, often in speculative or theoretical contexts.
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credible |
Best used when referring to something or someone that can be trusted or believed because it seems reasonable and trustworthy.
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Examples of usage
- His fake ID looked convincing enough to fool the bouncer.
- The special effects in the movie were so convincing that it felt like reality.
- Her fake smile was not very convincing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that persuasive communication is most effective when it appeals to emotions rather than just facts.
- Cognitive dissonance is a psychological concept where people change their beliefs to align with their actions, often making them more convincing.
Pop Culture
- Numerous films focus on the theme of persuasion, including courtroom dramas where the goal is to convince a jury.
- The popularity of influencers on social media is a modern example of convincing techniques used to sway public opinion.
Communication
- The 'Elaboration Likelihood Model' explains that people can be convinced through a central route (focusing on the argument) or a peripheral route (focusing on superficial cues).
- Good communicators often use storytelling to create relatable scenarios that can be quite convincing.
Literature
- Great authors often manipulate character dialogue to be convincing, making readers invest in their stories and outcomes.
- In persuasive essays, writers use strong arguments and evidence to convince readers of their viewpoint.
Origin of 'convincing'
Main points about word origin
- The word originated from the Latin 'convincere', which means 'to conquer or overcome'.
- The Middle French word 'convaincre', meaning 'to convince', influenced its modern usage in English.
The word 'convincing' originated from the Latin word 'convincere', which means 'to prove one's point' or 'to overcome'. The term has been used in English since the 16th century, evolving to its current meaning of being persuasive or believable. Over time, 'convincing' has become a common adjective used in various contexts to describe something that is compelling or believable.
See also: convince, convinced, convincingly, convincingness, unconvinced, unconvincing.