convert
Definitions
To change something into a different form, function, or substance.
（使）转变，转换（形式、功能或物质）。
To change one's religion, belief, or party, or persuade someone else to.
（使）改变信仰、信念或党派；皈依。
A person who has changed their religion or beliefs.
皈依者；改变信仰的人。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcon- (thoroughly) + vert (turn) = 'turn completely over.' To convert is to turn something all the way into a new form — water into ice, dollars into euros, or a person wholly toward a new faith (the original sense). The prefix con- stresses that the turn is total, not partial.
Root vers still carries 91 more wordsWhy It Means This
Convert began as a religious word: to convert was to 'turn one's whole self' toward a new God or faith. From that spiritual turning, the word spread outward to any complete change of form — currency, energy, buildings, file types. Whatever the domain, the image holds: something is turned thoroughly from one state into another.
Usage Guide
Stress shifts with part of speech: con-VERT (verb, to change) vs CON-vert (noun, a person who changed faith). The verb takes convert X into/to Y.
Example Sentences
- 1.
They plan to convert the old factory into apartments.
- 2.
You can convert dollars to euros at the airport.
- 3.
She converted to Buddhism in her thirties.
- 4.
As a recent convert, he attends every service.
Synonym Comparison
- convert — turn one thing completely into another: convert dollars to euros
- transform — a dramatic, often visible change of nature or appearance
- change — the broadest, neutral word
- switch — swap one for another, often quick and discrete
- adapt — adjust to fit new conditions, not a full conversion