proselytize

American  

[pros-uh-li-tahyz] / ˈprɒs ə lɪˌtaɪz /

especially British, proselytise

verb (used with or without object)

proselytized, proselytizing

1. to convert or attempt to convert as a proselyte; recruit to a religion or other belief system.

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proselytize British  

/ ˈprɒsɪlɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. to convert (someone) from one religious faith to another

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Other Word Forms

• proselytistic adjective
• proselytization noun
• proselytizer noun

Etymology

Origin of proselytize

First recorded in 1670–80; proselyte + -ize

Compare meaning

How does proselytize compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• proselytize vs. evangelize

Explanation

To proselytize is to try to persuade someone to switch to your religious beliefs or your way of living. If you are going to proselytize, try not to be too pushy! The word proselytize can specifically refer to religious evangelism, as in: "Proselytizing is a fundamental component of Mormonism." Proselytize, however, can also be used for any situation when people are trying to convince others to try something or to join something. TV ads proselytize about the pleasures of life with mouthwash, friends proselytize about how great their favorite video games are, and parents proselytize about the benefits of eating vegetables.

Example Sentences

Aster is careful not to pass judgment or overtly proselytize, favoring a mode of storytelling that gets as close to the truth as possible while leading with objectivity.

From Salon • Jul. 20, 2025

He envisions the movie to run around 80 minutes, focusing on Jesus’ core teachings in a way that explores the principles but doesn’t proselytize.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2024

“There’s no proselytizing because our church doesn’t proselytize or try to convert anyone — they just talk.”

From Seattle Times • Dec. 11, 2023

I’m not here to proselytize, but if you have a hankering to join in on the photo fun, tools like Wikishootme show you nearby landmarks that need photos.

From Slate • Oct. 5, 2023

“To proselytize means to preach a certain way of thinking, in this case the cause of the Survivalists,” I answer, mentally calculating distance and time.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland