proselytize
PROSS-uh-lih-tyz
/ˈprɒsəlɪtaɪz/
To attempt to convert someone from one religion, belief system, or political party to another.
Often carries a persistent, intrusive, or aggressive connotation of active conversion tactics.
The story behind the word. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament (the Septuagint), 'proselytos' described a foreigner or Gentile who had moved to Israel and embraced Judaism. The verb form entered English in the 17th century to describe the zealous practice of recruiting converts to any faith or cause.
Word relationships
- evangelize: 'Evangelize' typically refers specifically to preaching the Christian gospel, whereas 'proselytize' applies to any religion or political ideology.
- convert: 'Convert' focuses on the change in belief, whereas 'proselytize' focuses on the action of persuading someone else to change.
- dissuade: To persuade someone against taking a course of action or holding a belief.
Commonly confused with
- propagate: 'Propagate' means to spread ideas widely; 'proselytize' focuses on actively seeking individual converts.
Word family
- proselyte (noun): A person who has converted from one opinion, religion, or party to another.
- proselytism (noun): The act or practice of attempting to convert people.
Collocations
- proselytize actively
- forbidden to proselytize
- proselytize for a cause
- proselytize among villagers
Example sentences
- "Company policy explicitly prohibited employees from attempting to proselytize while on duty." Corporate policy
- "The missionaries traveled into remote regions to proselytize among local populations." Religious history
Memory hook
PROS-AT-LIES: Proselytizers are pros at selling their beliefs to turn your mind. Pushing hard to win new converts.
When not to use
Do not use for merely expressing an opinion without trying to convert the listener.
Fun facts
- In international law, some nations draw a constitutional distinction between freedom of worship and freedom to proselytize, restricting the latter.
Related words
Explore more words
persuade, assimilate, devout, catechize, promulgate, turncoat
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