How to pronounce

proselytize

To pronounce "proselytize," first start by breaking it down into syllables: pro-se-ly-tize.

American Pronunciation: In American English, "proselytize" is pronounced as /ˈprɑːsələˌtaɪz/. It has four syllables, with the stress on the first syllable: PROS-uh-luh-tize. The "PROS" sounds like "pros" in "prospect," the "uh" is a short, unstressed sound, "luh" as in the first part of "love," and "tize" rhymes with "ties."
British Pronunciation: In British English, "proselytize" is also pronounced as /ˈprɒsəlɪˌtaɪz/, with the main difference being in the vowel sound of the first syllable, which sounds closer to "pros" as in "process" (British pronunciation) rather than "prospect." The stress remains on the first syllable.

Definition of

proselytize

Proselytize (verb): To attempt to convert someone to one's religion, beliefs, or opinions. Examples: 1. The religious group often sends out missionaries to proselytize in other countries. 2. The politician's main goal was to proselytize and gain more supporters for his campaign. 3. The well-dressed man on the street corner tried to proselytize to anyone who passed by. 4. She was raised in a strict household and often felt pressured to proselytize to her friends. 5. The new yoga instructor would often proselytize about the benefits of a plant-based diet to her students. Proselytize can also be used in a non-religious context to mean to advocate or promote a certain idea or cause. Examples: 1. The company's marketing campaign was designed to proselytize about the importance of sustainability. 2. As a teacher, her goal was to proselytize critical thinking skills in her students. 3. The musician used his platform to proselytize for mental health awareness. 4. The book aims to proselytize readers about the benefits of mindfulness meditation. 5. Her blog has gained a large following as she seeks to proselytize for a more minimalist lifestyle.

What does it mean

proselytize

The word "proselytize" derives from the Greek word "proselytos," meaning "one who has come over." The Greek term itself comes from "pros," meaning "towards," and "elytos," interpreted as "one who has come." This term was adopted into Late Latin as "proselytus" and then into English. Originally, it described the action taken by those attempting to convert non-believers or those of different faiths into their religious community. The term has broadened over time to include the act of persuading others to join any cause or adopt any belief, reflecting its extensive use in religious and secular contexts alike.