Ask the Editor
Question
Can you tell me the exact difference between the words "convince" and "persuade"?
—
Arash
,
Iran
Answer
Usually convince means "to cause (someone) to believe that something is true." Usually persuade means "to cause (someone) to do something by asking, arguing, or giving reasons." They can be used interchangeably but that is less common. Below are some examples of the most common uses of convince and persuade:
- She's convinced [=she believes] that we are throwing her a surprise party.
- I didn't believe that I could be a musician but my mom convinced me I could [=she caused me to believe I could].
- Alright, you've convinced me you're right.
- The boy persuaded his mom to adopt a puppy. [=the boy caused his mom to adopt a puppy by asking or giving her reasons to]
- I have to persuade the board to give me the grant for my research.
- I wasn't planning on going out tonight but you've persuaded me.
Even though the above examples are the most common uses, it's ok to use convince and persuade interchangeably, especially when you mean "to cause (someone) to do something by asking, arguing, or giving reasons."
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