convert

To change something so it has a different form, purpose, or use.

• We converted the garage into a bedroom.
• The panels convert sunlight into electricity.
• Can you convert this document to a different format?

How to use it: convert something into something (They converted the old school into apartments.); convert something from A to B (This tool converts files from one format to another.)

Similar words: transform, change, adapt

Common phrases: convert a garage, convert a file, convert into something

To persuade someone to accept a different religion or set of beliefs.

• They hoped to convert him.
• Her arguments converted several listeners to her political beliefs.
• The preacher spent years trying to convert people to his faith.

How to use it: convert someone to something (The missionaries tried to convert villagers to Christianity.)

Similar words: win over

Common phrases: convert someone, convert someone to Christianity

To show an amount using a different unit of measurement.

• Convert these distances to miles.
• She converted the weight from pounds to kilograms.
• How do you convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?

How to use it: convert A to B (Multiply by this number to convert inches to centimetres.); convert something from A to B (We converted the temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius.)

Common phrases: convert miles, convert to kilograms, convert a measurement

A person who now likes or supports something they used to dislike or oppose.

• I tried yoga, and now I'm a convert.
• He became an enthusiastic convert to electric cars.
• Their cooking turned several meat lovers into converts to vegetarian food.

How to use it: a convert to something (After borrowing my bike, she became a convert to cycling.)

Similar words: supporter, fan, adherent

Common phrases: a new convert, enthusiastic convert, convert to something

A person who has changed their religion or beliefs.

• The church welcomed new converts.
• She met another convert to Islam.
• As a recent convert, he was still learning about his new faith.

How to use it: a convert to something (He is a recent convert to Buddhism.)

Common phrases: recent convert, religious convert, convert to Islam