Meaning & Definition of word "Proselytize"
Proselytize
/ˈprɒs.ə.lɪ.taɪz/
verb:
- 1. To convert someone from one belief or opinion to another, often in a religious context.
- Example: The missionaries aimed to proselytize by sharing their faith with the local communities.
- 2. To advocate or promote a particular doctrine or belief.
- Example: The political group sought to proselytize their ideas through social media campaigns.
- 3. To induce someone to convert to a particular doctrine or religion.
- Example: He often tried to proselytize his friends into joining his new religious movement.
- 4. To attempt to persuade others to adopt your beliefs.
- Example: Teachers should be careful not to proselytize their personal beliefs in the classroom.
Etymology
●From Greek 'proselytos', meaning 'stranger' or 'newcomer', referring to converts.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to proselytize one's beliefs:
To try to persuade others to accept one's own beliefs.
proselytizing in the name of someone:
Trying to convert others under the pretext of support from a particular figure or ideology.
Related Words
proselyte:
A person who has converted from one opinion, religion, or sect to another.
evangelism:
The spreading of the Christian gospel by public preaching or personal witness.
Slang Meanings of proselytize
Meaning: To heavily promote one's beliefs, often in a relentless manner.
● Example Sentence: He's always out there trying to proselytize like it's a full-time job.
Meaning: To pitch ideas or beliefs aggressively.
● Example Sentence: She was proselytizing her startup idea to anyone who would listen.