conviction
word
Definition
A conviction is a strong belief that you are sure is right. It can also mean an official decision by a court that someone is guilty of a crime.
Usage & Nuances
The belief meaning is common in everyday, academic, and political English, often in phrases like 'with conviction' or 'deep convictions'. The legal meaning appears in contexts like 'a criminal conviction' or 'a conviction for fraud'. Do not confuse it with 'confidence': 'conviction' is about firm belief, not general self-assurance.
Example Sentences
His conviction that education matters never changed.
basic
She spoke with conviction during the meeting.
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You can tell she has real conviction when she talks about climate change.
natural
The court announced his conviction last week.
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He said it with such conviction that everyone believed him.
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A past conviction can make it harder to find a job.
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