What does converting mean?
'Converting' is the present participle of the verb 'convert', meaning to change something from one form, state, system, or purpose into another. It is one of the most versatile words in English, appearing in contexts as varied as technology (converting files or data), construction (converting buildings), finance (converting currencies), religion (converting to a faith), and sport (converting chances into goals). The word carries a neutral connotation: it implies deliberate, purposeful change rather than random alteration. Derived ultimately from the Latin 'convertere', meaning 'to turn about' or 'to transform', it entered English through Old French and has been in continuous use since medieval times. Because so many fields rely on transformation processes — of energy, materials, information, and even beliefs — 'converting' remains an essential term for describing how one thing becomes another.
verbThe present participle of 'convert': to change something into a different form, state, or purpose, or to cause someone to adopt a different belief, religion, or opinion.
- Changing something from one form, state, system, or purpose to another (e.g. converting a file, a building, or units of measurement).
- Persuading someone to adopt a different religion, belief, or allegiance.
- In sport, successfully scoring after an opportunity (e.g. converting a penalty or a chance).
"The engineers are converting the old warehouse into modern loft apartments."
"She spent the summer converting the barn into a guesthouse."
"After months of study, he began converting to Buddhism."
From Latin convertere — literally 'to turn around' — the word behind everything from religious awakenings to loft apartments and currency exchanges.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of converting
'Converting' derives from the Latin 'convertere', composed of 'com-' (together) and 'vertere' (to turn), meaning to turn about or transform. It reached English via Old French 'convertir' during the medieval period and initially carried strong religious connotations of spiritual turning before broadening to general transformation. Its root also gives English cognates such as 'conversion', 'converse', and 'versus'.
Related word forms
How converting is actually used
A common everyday verb used across technical, commercial, religious, and sporting contexts; register is neutral.
Easily confused with converting
'Converting' means changing form or belief, while 'convicting' means formally finding someone guilty of a crime.