Skip to main content
conversionism

conversionism

9.5
Actively trying to make other people join a religion
  • noun
  • /kənˈvɜrʒənˌɪzəm/
translation icon : proselitismo
  • His approach to faith emphasized conversionism over quiet personal belief.

Examples

  • Some critics argue that conversionism can lead to cultural misunderstandings.

  • Many churches focus on conversionism to grow their congregations.

  • The organization is known for its strong conversionism and frequent outreach events.

  • The conversionism movement has gained popularity in recent years.

  • Many churches engage in conversionism to grow their congregations and spread their faith.

  • The missionaries practiced conversionism, hoping to bring new followers to their religion.

  • Her strong belief in conversionism motivated her to share her faith with others.

Synonyms

evangelism
vsconversionism
9 6.5

To tell people the Christian message to make them believers

is broader and neutral, covering policy and practice beyond zealous preaching
evangelization
vsconversionism
5 8.0

Spreading religious beliefs to try to convert people

is similar but frames conversion as a formal practice or policy rather than just spreading
proselytism
vsconversionism
1 9.9

To try to make other people accept your religion or beliefs

is an organised policy of actively seeking those conversions rather than isolated acts
proselytization
vsconversionism
1 9.1

Trying to make someone change their religion or beliefs

is a broader organised practice or policy rather than a single persuasive act
proselytute method
vsconversionism
9.9

A way of trying to make people join a belief by pressuring them

refers more widely to an overall policy of actively seeking conversion, not just a method
evangelistic approach
vsconversionism
7.7

A passionate, persuasive way of telling people about ideas or beliefs

is more formal and policy oriented, not only a persuasive promotional method

Antonyms

160 3.7

Willingness to accept beliefs or lifestyles different from your own

Surface Forms

conversionism singular

Morphology

conversionism = conversion (transparent) = convert + ion + ism

Built as 'conversion' + the doctrinal suffix '-ism', so the meaning 'practice or policy focused on converting others' is a direct extension.

Etymology

Conversionism comes from the word convert, which comes from an old word meaning 'to turn', plus the ending -ism, meaning a 'practice' or 'belief'. So conversionism points to the practice of trying to 'turn' others to a particular religion or belief, which is why it often means active outreach or trying to convert people.