Altered conviction is a term used in legal contexts to refer to a change of opinion or belief. The spelling of this phrase may seem straightforward, but understanding the pronunciation can be tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "altered" is pronounced /'ɒltəd/ with the stress on the first syllable. "Conviction" is pronounced /kən'vɪkʃ(ə)n/ with the stress on the second syllable. The combination of these two words creates a phrase that is commonly used in legal settings to describe changes in personal beliefs or opinions.
Altered conviction refers to a significant change or modification in one's beliefs, opinions, principles, or firmness of belief. It involves a transformation in the deeply held convictions and strong beliefs that one previously held to be true, resulting in a revised stance or viewpoint.
The term "altered conviction" suggests a departure from an established belief system, often caused by new information, personal experiences, or critical reflection. This change can occur on various levels, ranging from minor adjustments to a complete paradigm shift. Altered convictions typically involve a fundamental transformation of one's core values, moral compass, or understanding of certain concepts.
This concept is commonly associated with personal growth, introspection, and intellectual development. It implies that an individual has engaged in a process of reevaluating their preconceived notions, challenging their assumptions, and ultimately arriving at a different perspective. Altered convictions may be influenced by internal factors, such as self-reflection and personal growth, as well as external factors, including exposure to new ideas, diverse perspectives, or compelling evidence.
The process of altering one's convictions often requires an open mind, critical thinking, and a willingness to challenge one's own beliefs. It can be a transformative journey that leads to personal growth and a broader understanding of the world. However, it should be noted that altering convictions is not synonymous with flip-flopping or being easily swayed, but rather an individual's ability to evolve intellectually and adapt to new information or experiences.
The word "altered" comes from the Middle English word "alteren", which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "alterare" meaning "to change" or "to alternate". "Conviction", on the other hand, derives from the Latin word "convictio" meaning "a proving" or "a convincing". When these words are combined, "altered conviction" suggests a change or modification in one's firmly held belief or strong opinion.