Convince Meaning
Convince Definition & Usage
To persuade someone to believe or do something by reasoning or argument.
Examples
- "She tried to convince her friend to join the gym with her."
- "The lawyer was able to convince the jury of his client's innocence."
- "It took hours, but I finally convinced my parents to let me go on the trip."
- "John was convinced that investing in the stock market was a bad idea."
- "He used all his charm to convince her to buy the product."
To cause someone to feel certain about something, typically with a positive or persuasive outcome.
Examples
- "The teacher convinced me that I was capable of getting an A in the class."
- "After the meeting, I was convinced that the new policy would improve the work environment."
- "Her passion for the project convinced everyone to support it."
- "He convinced me of the importance of staying fit and eating healthy."
- "By the end of the conversation, I was convinced that his idea was the best solution."
To prove that something is false or wrong, especially through evidence or reasoning.
Examples
- "The detective's investigation convinced him that the suspect was innocent."
- "The new findings convinced the researchers that the previous theory was flawed."
- "The documentary convinced me that the story I heard was not accurate."
- "He tried to convince the audience that his accusations were baseless."
- "The facts convinced her that the claims were exaggerated."
Cultural Context
The word 'convince' originates from Latin 'convincere,' meaning 'to conquer or overcome.' It has been used since the 14th century and has evolved to have a wide range of applications, from formal, persuasive contexts (e.g., legal, academic) to more informal settings (e.g., personal relationships, marketing). In modern use, convincing often relates to both logical arguments and emotional appeals, depending on the situation.
The Great Debate
Story
The Great Debate
At the heart of a bustling city stood a grand university, known for its prestigious debates and intellectual gatherings. The annual 'Great Debate' had arrived, and this year, it was fierce. On one side was Clara, a brilliant philosopher with a sharp mind and a calm, confident demeanor. On the other, Michael, a seasoned lawyer known for his ability to sway any audience with his eloquence and persuasive arguments. The topic of the debate was simple: 'Does technology improve human connections or create isolation?' Clara opened the floor, arguing passionately that technology, while beneficial in many ways, often detracts from meaningful, face-to-face relationships. She had statistics, studies, and even personal anecdotes to support her claims. Michael, however, wasn’t easily convinced. With a warm smile, he countered, 'But isn't it precisely technology that allows us to reach out to people across the world? In this very debate, we're able to discuss this issue through technology.' He spoke with such conviction that the audience began to shift their opinions. As the debate progressed, Clara found herself questioning her own stance. She hadn’t expected Michael to convince her, but his arguments about the potential of technology to create communities and connections hit a chord. By the end of the debate, the students and faculty were split—half were convinced by Clara's call for deeper human connections, while the other half leaned toward Michael's optimistic view of technology as a bridge. Despite their differing opinions, both Clara and Michael walked away from the debate with a shared respect for each other's ideas. The power of persuasion, they realized, wasn’t in changing someone's mind entirely, but in opening up new perspectives. As they sat in the quiet, sunlit courtyard afterward, Clara admitted, 'I have to admit, you convinced me in some ways. Technology isn't just isolating—it's what connects us all.' Michael chuckled. 'Well, I’m glad to hear that. I guess that’s the real power of a good conversation.'
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