convey
kuhn-VAY
Convey (verb) means to communicate an idea, feeling, or message. Example: “Her letter conveyed how much she missed home.”
verb
1
To communicate an idea, feeling, or message.
"Her letter conveyed how much she missed home."
"The painting conveys a deep sense of loneliness."
"A warm smile can convey kindness even when you share no language."
2
To transport or carry something from one place to another.
"Pipes convey water to the village from the reservoir."
"Lorries convey fresh produce from the farms to the city markets."
"A moving belt conveyed the luggage across the hall to the plane."
3
(law) To legally transfer ownership of property.
"The land was conveyed to his son in the will."
"The solicitor will convey the cottage to the buyers once contracts are signed."
"The deed conveys the garden and the shed to the new owner."
How to use convey
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo carry something (goods, water, or an idea) from one place, person, or state to another.
Common pairings
convey a message
convey feelings
convey property
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- conveys
- Past tense
- conveyed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her letter _____ how much she missed home.
Etymology
From Old French conveier, from Vulgar Latin conviare, ultimately from Latin via, "way" — the same root as "convoy."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for convey
See all rhymes for convey →Frequently asked questions
What does “convey” mean?
The word “convey” means to communicate an idea, feeling, or message. In plain terms, to carry something (goods, water, or an idea) from one place, person, or state to another.
How do you pronounce “convey”?
“Convey” is pronounced kuhn-VAY (/kənˈveɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “convey” in a sentence?
Here is “convey” used in a sentence: “Her letter conveyed how much she missed home.”
What is another word for “convey”?
Words with a similar meaning to “convey” include accompany, conduct and escort.
What part of speech is “convey”?
“Convey” is a verb.
Where does the word “convey” come from?
The word “convey” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Old French conveier, from Vulgar Latin conviare, ultimately from Latin via, "way" — the same root as "convoy.".
Is “convey” a common word?
“Convey” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “convey” have?
“Convey” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to communicate an idea, feeling, or message.
What is the difference between convey and communicate?
Convey and communicate both involve getting an idea or message across, but convey often emphasizes the successful transmission of a specific feeling, meaning, or piece of information, as in the painting conveys sadness. Communicate is broader and can refer to the general exchange of information between people.
What does convey mean in a legal context?
In law, to convey means to formally transfer ownership of property from one party to another, typically through a legal document such as a deed. This is a distinct, technical sense separate from conveying an idea or transporting an object.
Can convey be used for physically moving objects?
Yes, convey can mean to transport or carry something from one place to another, such as pipes that convey water or a vehicle that conveys goods. This physical sense exists alongside its more common figurative use for communicating ideas or feelings.
