Convert
/kənˈvɜrt/
verbnounB2
Definition
To convert means to change something from one form or use to another. This can be about objects, ideas, or beliefs. For example, you can convert a room into an office, or someone can convert to a new religion. As a noun, a convert is a person who has made such a change, especially in beliefs or religion.
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See It in Action
To change something into a different form or use
- •They converted the old barn into a beautiful house.
- •You can convert dollars into euros at the bank.
- •The factory was converted to produce electric cars.
To change beliefs, especially religion or ideas
- •She converted to Buddhism after traveling to Asia.
- •Many converts find new meaning in their faith.
- •He converted from being a skeptic to a strong believer.
(Noun) A person who has changed their beliefs or religion
- •The convert shared their story about changing faith.
- •Converts often face challenges when joining a new community.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "convert" like "change," but more focused on turning one thing into another specific form or belief.
- ✓Picture a small box being opened and its contents rearranged to become a different shape or purpose.
- ✓It's the feeling of deciding to do something new or different, like choosing a new way to live or think.
- ✓Sounds like "con-VERT" → imagine turning a "VERTical" line into a different direction.
- ✓Think of a story where someone changes their mind or heart, like in a movie where a character becomes a hero after being a villain.
- ✓NOT like "change" (which can be small or general), "convert" is a clear, purposeful change from one form or belief to another.
- ✓NOT like "transform" (which can be physical or magical), "convert" often means practical or belief-based change.
- ✓NOT like "switch" (quick and sometimes temporary), "convert" usually means a deeper, lasting change.
Try Other Words
- •Transform: to make a big or complete change (Use when emphasizing a big physical or visible change)
- •Switch: to change from one thing to another quickly (Use when the change is simple or temporary)
- •Adapt: to adjust or change to fit new conditions (Use when change is about fitting in or improving)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: prefix "con-" (with, together) + root "vert" (to turn)
- •Etymology: From Latin "convertere," meaning "to turn around" or "to change"
- •Historical development: Used since Middle English to mean turning or changing something
- •Modern usage: Commonly used for changing beliefs, forms, or uses of things and people
- •Key insight: The idea of turning something around to become something else
Reflect & Connect
•What kinds of things or ideas in your life could you convert to something new or better?
•How does converting beliefs or habits change a person’s life and relationships?
Fill in the blanks
1.People often convert ___ a new religion because they find new meaning or comfort.
2.When you convert a garage ___ a living room, you need to change the space and furniture.
3.Unlike a quick switch, converting usually means a ___ and lasting change.
4.A convert may face challenges ___ fitting into a new community or way of life.
5.You can convert energy ___ electricity using special machines.
6.The company converted its old factory ___ produce new products.
7.He converted from being doubtful ___ fully believing in the idea.