Convince vs. Persuade: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
Traditionally, "convince" means to make someone believe that something is true, while "persuade" means to get someone to do something. You convince someone that a plan will work; you persuade someone to support the plan. In modern English, the meanings sometimes overlap.
Difference at a Glance
| Feature | Convince | Persuade |
|---|---|---|
| Main result | A change in belief or opinion | A decision or action |
| Common pattern | convince + person + that/of | persuade + person + to |
| Example | She convinced me that it was safe. | She persuaded me to try it. |
| Opposite result | Remain unconvinced | Refuse to act |
Definitions
Convince
To cause someone to accept that an idea or statement is true.
convince + person + that / convince + person + of
"The evidence convinced us that he was right."
"She convinced them of the need for change."
Persuade
To cause someone, through reasoning or urging, to decide to do something.
persuade + person + to + verb
"We persuaded her to apply."
"He could not persuade them to stay."
Grammar Rule
Key Rule: Use "convince someone that/of" for belief and "persuade someone to" for action. Never use "persuade someone of to" or "convince to someone."
"Convince someone to do something" is now common and accepted, particularly in American English, though "persuade someone to" preserves the traditional distinction.
Common Mistakes
Incorrect: She convinced to me that the story was true.
Correct: She convinced me that the story was true.
"Convince" takes the person directly, without "to."
Incorrect: They persuaded that the proposal was affordable.
Correct: They convinced us that the proposal was affordable.
A person is needed, and the result is belief.
Incorrect: I persuaded him of to attend the meeting.
Correct: I persuaded him to attend the meeting.
Use "persuade + person + to + verb."
More Correct Examples
Mini Quiz
1. Choose the verb: "The doctor _____ me to get more sleep."
2. Choose the verb: "The photographs _____ the jury that his account was accurate."
3. Complete the pattern: "She persuaded her manager _____ approve the request."
Common Learner Questions
Can I say "convince someone to do something"?
Yes. It is common and accepted in modern English, especially American English. "Persuade someone to" is the traditional form when action is the result.
Can you persuade someone but not convince them?
Yes. A person might agree to act because of pressure or a reward without believing the underlying claim.
What prepositions follow "convince"?
Use "of" before a noun ("convince her of the value") or "that" before a clause ("convince her that it has value").