# unconvinced

/ˌənkənˈvɪnst/ (US) · /ʌnkənvˈɪnst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unconvinced
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

not believing that something is true or right. You use it when someone tries to convince you, but you still have doubts.

For teachers: not persuaded that a claim, argument, or proposal is true or valid. Often follows linking verbs and takes 'by' or 'of' to name the unpersuasive source.

## Examples

- I remain unconvinced by his excuse.
- The manager stays unconvinced by the sales report and asks for more data before approval.
- Despite the polished presentation and confident forecasts, several investors remain unconvinced that the startup can survive rising costs and stronger competition.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the argument is unconvinced" but "the argument is unconvincing" — Unconvinced describes the person who doubts; unconvincing describes the argument that fails to persuade.

## Usage notes

- Typically predicative after linking verbs such as 'remain' or 'seem'; takes 'by' or 'of' to name the unpersuasive claim.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.