convert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "convert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of changing something from one form or format to another. Example: "To use the new software, you need to convert your files to the compatible format."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What got me onto this theory was reading that the shoe bomber, a Muslim convert named Richard Reid, had been described by someone who knew him well in England as 'very, very impressionable.' I had already decided that the man was a complete bozo.

The Economist

The schools becoming academies were far from random ("outstanding" institutions enjoyed special freedoms to convert; failing schools were sometimes forced), so the department proposed, and identified funds for, a systematic evaluation.

The Guardian

A 30 April deadline to convert $4.7bn in pledged assistance into specific payment timetables has been missed.

The Guardian

Howard, by then a cautious convert to the importance of symbolism to advance reconciliation, proposed a policy of constitutional recognition at the 2007 election but by then he'd run out of time in the Lodge.

The Guardian

I should have seized some opportunities; had some break-point opportunities but I didn't convert them.

The Guardian - Sport

Thatcher wanted to know whether Gorbachev had approved the donation, since the Soviet miners would have needed government permission to convert roubles into foreign currency.

The Guardian

The culture secretary has announced that same-sex couples will be able to convert their civil partnership to a marriage from early December.

The Guardian

One of the few remaining players from their heyday did his best to keep his club in the tie, Paul Cooper saving his fifth penalty of the season, as Colin Walsh failed to convert one of the rare chances during the goalless first leg at Portman Road.

The Guardian - Sport

They said it was common practice for free trials for services to convert to a paid subscription unless cancelled, and that consumers would understand and expect that they had to cancel within the free period if they did not want to start a paid subscription.

The Guardian

He is a cradle Catholic, she a convert and they plan to have a big family, starting here, and to devote their lives to each other, to their children and to all their future patients.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'm not trying to convert anybody (although a mass poly baptism does sound like a fun day out).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "convert", ensure the context clearly defines what is being transformed and into what. For instance, specify units when converting measurements or forms of currency.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the initial and final states when using "convert". Vague phrasing can confuse the reader about the nature of the transformation.

Linguistic Context

The word "convert" functions primarily as a verb, signifying the action of changing something into another form, substance, state, or product. Ludwig AI demonstrates its utility across various contexts, from physical transformations to changes in belief.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "convert" is a versatile verb used to describe a transformation from one state to another, as supported by Ludwig AI. Its grammatical correctness and widespread usage make it suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. The related phrases offer alternatives like "transform" and "exchange", while guidance focuses on clarity and directionality. The expert rating underscores its consistent application and high source authority. "Convert" is, therefore, a reliable and frequently employed term in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

transform

This term implies a significant change in form or appearance.

change over

This suggests a shift from one thing to another.

exchange

This means to give something and receive something else in return.

turn into

This indicates a change in state or condition.

adapt

This implies modifying something to suit new conditions.

translate

This refers to changing something from one language to another.

remodel

This signifies altering the structure or form of something.

persuade

This indicates convincing someone to change their beliefs.

switch

This implies changing from one option to another.

recast

This suggests presenting something in a new or different way.

FAQs

How can I use "convert" in a sentence about currency?

You can say, "I need to convert my dollars to euros before my trip", indicating an exchange from one currency to another.

What's the difference between "convert" and "transform"?

"Convert" often implies a change in units or systems, while "transform" suggests a more fundamental change in form or nature.

Is it correct to say "convert into" or just "convert"?

Both are correct, but "convert" often implies the "into", making it redundant. For example, "convert dollars into euros" and "convert dollars" are both acceptable.

What are some alternatives to "convert"?

You can use alternatives like "change over", "exchange", or "turn into", depending on the specific context.