convert
/kənˈvɜːt/- 1.
To change something from one form, purpose, or system into a different one. The original thing still exists but now works differently or serves a new function.
- The factory was converted into luxury apartments.
- You can convert kilometres to miles using this formula.
- The software converts audio files to MP3 format.
- 2.
To persuade someone to change their religion, political beliefs, or strong opinions. Can also describe the person voluntarily changing their own beliefs.
- She converted to Islam after years of study.
- Nobody could convert him to the new diet.
A person who has recently changed their religion, beliefs, or strong opinions, often with great enthusiasm.
- As a recent convert, he talked about veganism constantly.
- The group welcomed converts from all backgrounds.
Adinary Nuance
Convert is often confused with transform, change, and adapt, but each word has a distinct focus. Convert implies a specific, purposeful shift — the original material or person takes on a new function or belief system, often with a clear "before" and "after" (e.g., converting a currency, converting a file). Transform suggests a deeper, more dramatic and visible overhaul where the result looks or feels completely different — you transform a neighbourhood, not just adjust it. Change is the most general word and works in almost any situation but carries no sense of system or method. Adapt means adjusting something slightly so it fits a new condition — less radical than converting. In IELTS and academic writing, convert is the precise choice whenever you are describing a measurable or systematic shift between two defined states.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- chuyển đổi
- Spanish
- convertir
- Chinese
- 转换
- Japanese
- 変換する
- Korean
- 변환하다
Etymology
From Latin "convertere" meaning "to turn around" or "to transform," via Old French "convertir." The word entered English around the 14th century, first in a religious sense, and later broadened to cover any change of form or function.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between 'convert' and 'transform'?
- 'Convert' focuses on a purposeful, systematic change — like converting a unit of measurement or a file format. 'Transform' suggests a bigger, more dramatic change where the result looks or feels completely different. In academic writing, 'convert' is more precise when you are describing a defined shift between two systems.
- What preposition follows 'convert'?
- Use 'convert to' when describing what something becomes (e.g., 'convert dollars to euros', 'convert to solar power'). Use 'convert from' when emphasising the starting point (e.g., 'converted from coal to gas').
- Is 'convert' formal enough for IELTS or academic writing?
- Yes, 'convert' is widely used in academic and IELTS writing, especially in science, economics, and technology topics. It is a neutral, formal verb that fits both Task 1 (describing data) and Task 2 (argumentative essays).
- Can 'convert' be used as a noun?
- Yes. A 'convert' (noun) is a person who has changed their religion or beliefs, usually recently and with enthusiasm. The stress shifts to the first syllable: /ˈkɒn.vɜːt/. The verb form stresses the second syllable: /kənˈvɜːt/.