convertir
verbCEFR B2High frequency
What does “convertir” mean in English?
1.to convert, to turn into
to convert, to turn into (convertir A en B; convertirse en — become something new)
2.to convert, to render
to convert, to render (convertir algo en — transform X into Y; convertirse en — become)
Example sentences
La crisis energética convirtió el ahorro en una prioridad para los gobiernos de toda Europa.
The energy crisis turned savings into a priority for governments across Europe.
Con el tiempo, su pequeño proyecto de barrio se convirtió en una fundación reconocida internacionalmente.
Over time, their small neighbourhood project became an internationally recognised foundation.
La digitalización ha convertido a muchas industrias tradicionales en sectores completamente irreconocibles.
Digitalisation has turned many traditional industries into completely unrecognisable sectors.
How to use it
Convertir means 'to convert' or 'to turn into'. The key structure at B2 is convertir A en B: convertir un problema en una oportunidad (turn a problem into an opportunity). The reflexive convertirse en means 'to become' or 'to turn into': 'se convirtió en una referencia mundial' (it became a global benchmark). Don't confuse with transformar (to transform — more radical, complete change) or volverse (to become — for adjective changes: se volvió más cauteloso — he became more cautious).
Common mistake
Convertir A en B (turn A into B) vs. transformar A en B (transform A into B): convertir implies a functional or categorical change of identity; transformar implies a deeper, more radical remaking. Also: convertirse en (to become) is the reflexive form for abstract or category changes (se convirtió en líder), while volverse is for adjective/quality changes (se volvió ambicioso). Don't mix these up — they are B2-level nuance.