convencer

Convencer is a Spanish verb meaning to persuade or cause someone to believe or do something. It is a transitive verb, typically used with a direct object (the thing or idea being persuaded) and with the indirect object introducer a to indicate the person being persuaded. Common constructions include convencer a alguien de algo (to persuade someone of something) and convencer a alguien para que haga algo (to persuade someone to do something).

Etymology and sense: Convencer derives from Latin convinere, from con- plus vincere, meaning to win over or overcome. The sense in Spanish reflects moving someone to accept a proposition through argument, evidence, or reasoning. The noun form convicción refers to a firm belief, while the adjective convincente describes something persuasive.

Usage and nuance: While closely related to persuadir, convicción and persuasion nuances can differ by context. Convencer emphasizes altering belief or willingness through argument or proof, whereas persuadir can imply a broader range of influence, including emotional appeal. The reflexive form convencerse de means to become convinced of something.

Conjugation and forms (highlights): Convencer is irregular in the present indicative first-person singular (convenzo) and follows typical -er verb patterns otherwise. Present indicative forms include: convenzo, convences, convence, convencemos, convencéis, convencen. Other key tenses include the preterite: convencí, convenciste, convenció, convencimos, convencisteis, convencieron; imperfect: convencía, convencías, convencía, convencíamos, convencíais, convencían. Present subjunctive: convenza, convenzas, convenza, convenzamos, convenzáis, convenzan. Future: convenceré, convencerás, convencerá, convenceremos, convenceréis, convencerán.

Examples: “Quería convencer a mis padres de la viabilidad del proyecto.” “No logró convencerlo de que era necesario.” “Ella se convenció de la veracidad de la historia.” See also: persuasión, convincente, convicción, convencerse.