Proselytizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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proselytizing
[ˈprɑː.sə.lɪt.aɪzɪŋ ]
Definitions
religious
To convert or attempt to convert someone from one religion, belief, or opinion to another.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| proselytizing |
Used when someone is actively trying to convert others to their own religion or beliefs, often in an aggressive manner. It can have a negative connotation if it implies overzealousness or annoyance.
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| convert |
Implies successfully changing someone's religion or beliefs, often used in a more neutral manner. It focuses on the outcome rather than the process.
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| evangelize |
Typically used in a Christian context, meaning to spread the gospel or Christian teachings. It generally has a more positive or neutral connotation than 'proselytizing'.
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| preach |
Used to describe the act of delivering a religious or moral message, often in a formal setting like a church. It can also be used metaphorically to mean giving advice or opinions in a forceful way.
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Examples of usage
- He was proselytizing on the street corner, trying to convert passersby to his religion.
- The missionaries were proselytizing in the remote village, spreading their religious beliefs.
negative
The practice of trying to convert people to one's own belief or opinion, especially in a forceful or aggressive way.
Synonyms
conversion, evangelism, zealotry.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| proselytizing |
This word is often used when someone is actively trying to convert others to their religion or beliefs. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation, especially if the attempts are perceived as aggressive or unwelcome.
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| evangelism |
This word refers to the practice of spreading a religious faith, particularly in Christianity, and is often associated with preaching and missionary work. It usually doesn't carry the negative implication of 'proselytizing'.
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| conversion |
This term is generally more neutral and is used to describe the actual process or result of changing one's beliefs, often in a religious context.
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| zealotry |
Zealotry usually has a negative connotation and refers to fanatical and uncompromising pursuit of religious, political, or other ideals. It implies excessive fervor and intolerance of other views.
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Examples of usage
- The aggressive proselytizing of the political group alienated many potential supporters.
- She found his constant proselytizing about the benefits of veganism annoying.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religion
- Many religions, including Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, engage in proselytizing as a way of spreading their beliefs.
- Modern practices of evangelism often stem from the Great Commission in Christianity, where Jesus instructed his followers to spread his teachings.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have varying views on proselytizing, with some considering it a means of sharing truth and others viewing it as intrusive.
- In some regions, aggressive proselytizing can lead to social conflict or cross-cultural tensions.
Philosophical Discussions
- The ethics of proselytizing raises questions about respect for personal beliefs and freedom of choice.
- Debates continue on whether it enriches societies through diversity or creates divisions by imposing beliefs.
Psychology
- Motivations for proselytizing can stem from a genuine desire to help others as well as a need for social validation.
- Psychological studies suggest that those who engage in proselytizing often feel a strong sense of identity and purpose tied to their beliefs.
Origin of 'proselytizing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'proselytos', meaning 'one who has come over' or 'newly arrived'.
- Historically, 'proselyte' referred specifically to a non-Jew who converted to Judaism, highlighting early contexts of the term.
The word 'proselytize' originated from the Late Latin word 'proselytus' meaning 'convert' which was derived from the Greek word 'prosēlytos' meaning 'stranger, one who has arrived'. The term has been primarily associated with religious conversion efforts but has also been used in a broader sense to refer to attempting to persuade or recruit others to a particular cause or point of view.