konvertieren
Ich muss diese Datei in ein PDF konvertieren.
I need to convert this file into a PDF.
To change a file, data, or format from one type to another.
Das Programm konvertiert automatisch Bilder in das JPEG-Format.
The program automatically converts images to JPEG format.
Common in IT and digital media contexts.
To exchange one currency for another.
Wir können den Betrag in Euro konvertieren.
We can convert the amount into euros.
Formal equivalent of 'tauschen' in banking.
To change one's religious belief or affiliation.
Er hat sich zum Buddhismus konvertiert.
He converted to Buddhism.
Used for changing religious faith.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'umwandeln' for physical changes (e.g., wood into furniture) and 'konvertieren' for abstract/technical changes (files, currency, religion).
Word Origin
From Latin 'convertere' (to turn around), via French 'convertir'.
Usage Notes
While 'umwandeln' is the more common general term for 'to convert/change', 'konvertieren' is preferred in technical (IT), financial, and religious contexts. It is a separable verb: 'ich konvertiere um' (though often used inseparably in technical jargon, standard grammar treats it as separable or inseparable depending on nuance, but 'umwandeln' is safer for general 'change'). Actually, 'konvertieren' is typically used as an inseparable verb in modern German usage (konvertiere, konvertiert), unlike 'umwandeln' (wandle um).