CONVICTION Synonyms: 99 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'conviction' differ from other similar words?

The words certainty and certitude are common synonyms of conviction . While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual. // holds firm convictions on every issue

Q: How do 'certainty' and 'certitude' relate to one another, in the sense of 'conviction'?

Both certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof. // claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

Q: When can 'certitude' be used instead of 'conviction'?

While in some cases nearly identical to conviction , certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof. // believes with certitude in an afterlife

conviction

noun

kən-ˈvik-shən

Definition of conviction next

as in certainty

a state of mind in which one is free from doubt spoke with conviction about her political beliefs

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in belief

an idea that is believed to be true or valid without positive knowledge held deep convictions about life after death

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

fact
truth

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun conviction differ from other similar words?

The words certainty and certitude are common synonyms of conviction. While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual.

holds firm convictions on every issue

How do certainty and certitude relate to one another, in the sense of conviction?

Both certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof.

claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

When can certitude be used instead of conviction?

While in some cases nearly identical to conviction, certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof.

believes with certitude in an afterlife

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of conviction This was an egregious set of facts that resulted in a conviction along with a 10–15-year prison sentence. —

Jason Volack, ABC News, 26 Dec. 2024 In fact, Disney would likely benefit from more conviction in its core values and less capitulation to loud, online conversation. —

Katie Campione, Deadline, 25 Dec. 2024 Eugene Spector was sentenced to a new 15-year term for his espionage conviction, according to Russian news agencies. —

Landon Mion, Fox News, 25 Dec. 2024 Pistorius served 11 years in jail for his conviction and was released in January of 2024. —

Cory Mull, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for conviction

Recent Examples of Synonyms for conviction

Noun

This regulatory certainty will catalyze stablecoin adoption across the fintech and traditional banking sectors, bolstering U.S. dollar dominance in global markets.

Alexander S. Blume, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024
At the moment, the only certainty with the Yankees’ 2025 defensive alignment is that Aaron Judge will be in right field.

Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic, 18 Dec. 2024