In 15 Seconds
- Winning over people who initially doubted your work or ideas.
- Proving your worth through results rather than just words.
- A common phrase for success stories in professional or creative fields.
Meaning
To win over people who were initially skeptical or negative about your work, ideas, or performance.
Key Examples
3 of 6A chef after a successful restaurant opening
Le nouveau chef a enfin réussi à persuader les critiques avec son dessert signature.
The new chef finally managed to persuade the critics with his signature dessert.
Discussing a politician's performance
Elle doit encore persuader les critiques au sein de son propre parti.
She still needs to persuade the critics within her own party.
Texting a friend about a presentation
Ma présentation s'est bien passée, j'ai persuadé les critiques (même mon boss) !
My presentation went well, I persuaded the critics (even my boss)!
Cultural Background
Critics are highly respected in the French literary scene.
Direct Object
Remember: no preposition after persuader.
In 15 Seconds
- Winning over people who initially doubted your work or ideas.
- Proving your worth through results rather than just words.
- A common phrase for success stories in professional or creative fields.
What It Means
This phrase is about more than just talking. It is about proving your worth to people who doubted you. In French, persuader les critiques implies a shift in opinion. You start with people who are unimpressed. You end with them on your side. It is the ultimate 'I told you so' moment, but classier. You are not just arguing; you are providing evidence of your talent or logic.
How To Use It
You use this phrase like any regular -er verb. Conjugate persuader to match your subject. For example, je persuade, nous persuadons. It usually follows a period of hard work or a specific event. You can use it when talking about a project, a performance, or even a personal choice. It sounds polished and confident. It shows you care about your reputation.
When To Use It
Use this in professional settings after a successful pitch. It is perfect for artists or creators after a gallery opening. You can use it in sports when a player finally plays well. Use it when you feel a sense of triumph over negativity. It works well in interviews to show you can handle pressure. It is also great for discussing movies or books that were initially hated but became hits.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for tiny, everyday disagreements. If your friend does not like your shoes, you do not 'persuade the critics.' That is too dramatic. Avoid using it if there were never any critics to begin with. It sounds a bit arrogant if you use it for every small success. Also, do not use it if you only convinced one person; les critiques implies a group or a general atmosphere of doubt.
Cultural Background
France has a deep-rooted 'culture de la critique.' Being a critic is a respected profession in food, art, and philosophy. French people often express love through debate and pointing out flaws. Therefore, winning over a critic is seen as a true mark of quality. It is not just about being liked; it is about being respected. In France, a 'critique' is not necessarily an enemy, but a hurdle to clear.
Common Variations
You might hear convaincre les sceptiques, which means 'to convince the skeptics.' This is slightly more logical and less emotional. Another variation is faire taire les critiques, which means 'to silence the critics.' That one is a bit more aggressive. If you want to sound very professional, you can say remporter l'adhésion, which means 'to gain support.' But persuader les critiques remains the most evocative for a comeback story.
Usage Notes
This is a versatile B1-level phrase. It is grammatically straightforward but carries a lot of 'narrative' weight, making you sound like a storyteller.
Direct Object
Remember: no preposition after persuader.
Examples
6Le nouveau chef a enfin réussi à persuader les critiques avec son dessert signature.
The new chef finally managed to persuade the critics with his signature dessert.
Shows a professional triumph in a high-pressure environment.
Elle doit encore persuader les critiques au sein de son propre parti.
She still needs to persuade the critics within her own party.
Used here to describe internal political struggle and skepticism.
Ma présentation s'est bien passée, j'ai persuadé les critiques (même mon boss) !
My presentation went well, I persuaded the critics (even my boss)!
A slightly humorous way to refer to a tough boss.
Ce film a fini par persuader les critiques après un début difficile.
This movie ended up persuading the critics after a difficult start.
Refers to a change in public or professional opinion over time.
J'ai persuadé les critiques (mes enfants) que les brocolis sont bons.
I persuaded the critics (my kids) that broccoli is good.
Uses the phrase ironically for a small domestic victory.
Il a passé dix ans à essayer de persuader les critiques de son talent.
He spent ten years trying to persuade the critics of his talent.
Highlights the long-term struggle for recognition.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank.
Il a réussi à ______ les critiques.
Persuader is a direct transitive verb.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesIl a réussi à ______ les critiques.
Persuader is a direct transitive verb.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsIt is neutral.
Related Phrases
Convaincre les sceptiques
synonymConvince the skeptics