Synonyms of conviction

conviction

noun

kən-ˈvik-shən 

1

as in certainty

a state of mind in which one is free from doubt

spoke with conviction about her political beliefs

Synonyms & Similar Words

• certainty
• assurance
• confidence
• satisfaction
• certitude
• positiveness
• assuredness
• surety
• sureness
• cocksureness
• determination
• face
• doubtlessness
• dogmatism
• authoritarianism
• decisiveness
• resolution
• firmness
• resolve
• resoluteness
• purposefulness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• doubt
• uncertainty
• hesitation
• hesitancy
• disbelief
• irresolution
• concern
• indecisiveness
• incertitude
• incredulity
• anxiety
• unbelief
• nonconfidence
• suspicion
• distrust
• misgiving
• mistrust

2

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

• belief
• opinion
• mind
• view
• feeling
• attitude
• impression
• judgment
• verdict
• sentiment
• perception
• notion
• persuasion
• idea
• observation
• eye
• estimate
• estimation
• assumption
• determination
• decision
• presumption
• comment
• thought
• faith
• theory
• advice
• concept
• esteem
• conception
• hypothesis
• guess
• recommendation
• conclusion
• suggestion
• presupposition
• viewpoint
• stand
• reflection
• stance
• say
• position
• conjecture
• remark
• hunch
• credit
• perspective
• deliverance
• input
• standpoint
• outlook
• credence
• take
• angle
• shoes
• obiter dictum
• surmise
• counterview
• slant

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of conviction

Lapid, never shy about his own convictions, is well aware that his presentation of Israel could be a bitter pill for many Diaspora Jews to swallow. —Andrew Lapin, Sun Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026

Prosecutors cited Hunter’s past homicide convictions as aggravating factors to persuade the jury to recommend his execution. —Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026

These are works of deep conviction, carved in steel by a true believer in metal’s transcendental power. —Brad Sanders, Pitchfork, 14 Apr. 2026

In June 1985, more than 19 years after his conviction, Aziz was granted parole. —Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Apr. 2026