Convincing

/kənˈvɪnsɪŋ/

adjectiveIntermediateVery CommonLiterature

Definitions

1

Causing someone to believe something is true or to take a particular action.

/kənˈvɪnsɪŋ/

adjectivepositiveIntermediate
Literature

Able to persuade someone to believe something or do something.

The evidence presented was very convincing.

💡 Simply: Like when you tell your friend a story so well, they completely believe you, even if it sounds a little unbelievable. It's like when you tell them the cookies disappeared because of the cookie monster even when they know you ate them

👶 For kids: When something makes you really believe it's true!

More Examples

2

Her performance was not entirely convincing.

3

He gave a convincing explanation for his actions.

How It's Used

Debate

"The lawyer presented a convincing argument to the jury."

Marketing

"The advertisement used convincing testimonials to attract customers."

From Middle English *convincen*, from Old French *convaincre*, from Latin *convincere* (“to prove, overcome”), from *con-* (“with, together”) + *vincere* (“to conquer”).

The word's use in legal and philosophical contexts dates back centuries, reflecting its role in shaping beliefs and decisions.

Memory tip

Imagine a powerful speaker who makes you *believe* them – that's convincing!

convinsingconvinicing

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written