intense convictions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intense convictions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe strong and deeply held beliefs or opinions about a particular issue or topic. Example: "Her intense convictions about environmental conservation drove her to become an activist."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Miller had been a high official at the United Steelworkers union, and he brought to his baseball constituency the intense convictions of a dedicated trade unionist.

The New York Times - Sports

Instead of protestors and dissenters being bundled away from the path of the celestial flame, let them flock towards it, so many moths with intense convictions, only to discover when they're in range that it's a fucking flamethrower!

Independent

By the end of the fourth day, it seemed to me that Lawrence's little boat was well and truly (and maybe over-) loaded with intense convictions, which did not always match.

The New Yorker

He's a person with intense convictions about how you balance necessary evils with higher purpose.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Sean Penn outdoes himself as Milk, balancing his intense conviction with an unusual and welcome playfulness.

The New York Times

Bethune's strengths and flaws are those of the Loyalists themselves — notably an intense conviction and an equal ruthlessness.

The New York Times - Books

This intense conviction of the existence of the self apart from culture is, as culture well knows, its noblest and most generous achievement.

The New Yorker

The characters' detachment from reality is clearly an ironic commentary, but the actors play it with such intense conviction that any potential humour or societal message is lost.

The Guardian

A true gentleman and man of unwavering principle, intense conviction, resolute character, rare humanity, and genuine humility who also made people laugh.

The New York Times

Others found the performances almost unbearably moving, as much for the beauty of the singing as for the intense conviction with which she conveyed the agony of suffering and, eventually, the ecstasy of spiritual release.

The New Yorker

Along the way, he is gripped by "an intense conviction that India had something to give me that I had to have" and finds peace at the ashram of Sri Ganesha, a Hindu saint.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intense convictions" to describe beliefs that are not only strong but also deeply felt and personally significant to the individual or group holding them.

Common error

Avoid using "intense convictions" when simply describing common opinions or preferences. Reserve it for situations where the beliefs have a profound impact on actions or decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intense convictions" functions as a noun phrase, where 'intense' modifies the noun 'convictions'. The Ludwig AI confirms that it describes strong and deeply held beliefs. Examples show it used to characterize individuals with strong dedication to a cause.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "intense convictions" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, primarily found in news and media contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to describe beliefs that are not only strong but also deeply ingrained and emotionally charged. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys the significance of these beliefs. Alternative phrases like "strong beliefs" or "deeply held views" can be used depending on the desired level of emphasis. When writing, reserve "intense convictions" for situations where beliefs have a profound and demonstrable impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong beliefs

Replaces "intense convictions" with a more general term for firmly held ideas.

passionate beliefs

Stresses the emotional investment in the convictions.

fervent convictions

Emphasizes the ardor and enthusiasm associated with the beliefs.

deep-seated beliefs

Emphasizes the long-held and profound nature of the beliefs.

profound convictions

Underscores the depth and significance of the held beliefs.

unshakable beliefs

Focuses on the steadfastness and resilience of the convictions.

firm principles

Focuses on moral or ethical guidelines held with certainty.

deeply held views

Highlights that these are opinions the person cares very strongly about.

resolute principles

Indicates a firm and determined adherence to particular principles.

unwavering faith

Highlights a resolute and steadfast belief, often in a religious context.

FAQs

How can I use "intense convictions" in a sentence?

You can use "intense convictions" to describe someone's strong beliefs. For example: "Her "intense convictions" about animal rights led her to become a vegetarian."

What are some alternatives to "intense convictions"?

Some alternatives include "strong beliefs", "deep-seated beliefs", or "firm principles", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "intense convictions" or "strong beliefs"?

"Intense convictions" suggests a deeper emotional investment and personal significance compared to the more general term "strong beliefs". Choose the phrase that best reflects the strength and nature of the belief.

In what contexts is "intense convictions" most appropriately used?

The phrase is most appropriate when describing beliefs that are not only firmly held but also deeply influential in a person's life or actions. Consider other terms like "deeply held views" for less extreme situations.