unconvinced

Unconvinced is an adjective describing a person or stance that is not persuaded by a claim, argument, or proposal. Someone who is unconvinced remains doubtful or skeptical and may require additional evidence, clarification, or refutation before accepting a conclusion. The term can apply to specific assertions or to broader positions, rather than implying a blanket disbelief.

Usage and nuance: In ordinary conversation, being unconvinced often signals a provisional or conditional stance rather than a firm belief. In formal contexts such as debates, legal proceedings, or scientific discussions, labeling an argument as unconvinced indicates that the speaker finds the presented evidence insufficient or unpersuasive. The word can be paired with phrases like “unconvinced by” or “left unconvinced after” to specify what is lacking in the argument.

Etymology: Unconvinced is formed by adding the prefix un- to convinced, an adjective built from the Latin convincere meaning “to overcome with argument” or “to win over.” The prefix un- signals negation, yielding the sense of not being persuaded.

Related terms: Synonyms include skeptical, doubtful, unpersuaded, hesitant, or wary. Antonyms include convinced, persuaded, certain, and assured. The term often overlaps with skepticism and critical thinking, where the default stance is to demand evidence before accepting claims.

See also: Doubt, Skepticism, Evidence, Burden of proof, Critical thinking.