Synonym Chooser

How is the word transform different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of transform are convert, metamorphose, transfigure, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

When would convert be a good substitute for transform?

The words convert and transform are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When is metamorphose a more appropriate choice than transform?

While the synonyms metamorphose and transform are close in meaning, metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

When is it sensible to use transfigure instead of transform?

The words transfigure and transform can be used in similar contexts, but transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When might transmogrify be a better fit than transform?

In some situations, the words transmogrify and transform are roughly equivalent. However, transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

When can transmute be used instead of transform?

The synonyms transmute and transform are sometimes interchangeable, but transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of transform However, after the banana ripens, those resistant starches are transformed into sugars through a process that breaks them down. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 4 Nov. 2024 Taking its first victory lap in fall 2023, the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix significantly transformed the Las Vegas Strip, metamorphosing a 3.8-mile stretch of one of the most famous boulevards in the world into a race track. Melinda Sheckells, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024 From digital skylights and smart seats to eye-tracking functionality and immersive soundscapes, the array of innovative amenities could transform even the longest flights into time well spent. Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 26 Oct. 2024 My company’s approach goes beyond cancer care—we’re transforming the entire hospital-to-home transition. Caroline Hodge, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for transform 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
Verb
  • Previously, Photoshop would have converted them to raster objects.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024
  • Detroit will have a 1st-and-10 from its own 47 (after converting a 3rd-and-16) to start the next quarter. 4d ago / 5:55 PM PST Copied Share Lions make goal-line stand, Texans get three Rohan Nadkarni Nice job by the Detroit defense to keep this game close.
    Rohan Nadkarni, NBC News, 11 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • The Rife store had just been remodeled into a beauty school, but was destroyed and is now a parking lot.
    James F. Hales Remembering Rogers, arkansasonline.com, 31 Oct. 2024
  • The skull was found in November 1978 by James Skinner, who was remodeling his house on East Wilson Street, according to Russell.
    R. Christian Smith, Chicago Tribune, 24 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • In House of Leaves, Danielewski’s unconventional typographical choices (words transfigure into different shapes across the pages) captures the sinister proportions of the house.
    G Kirilloff, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024
  • Migrating from music to acting, a handful of talents such as Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez and Dwight Yoakam have transfigured their medium from melody to melodrama.
    Hugh Hart, Los Angeles Times, 13 Aug. 2024
Verb
  • The bottom line: In tech's social media era, the industry built vast global networks that transmuted our posts and clicks into rivers of profit by monetizing users' personal information.
    Ina Fried, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Louis and Benson make the smart choice of establishing her as an officious queen bee, a lead sorority-sister type among her PKGs, an intensity that transmutes clearly into a vengeful streak once Dawn discovers and later embraces her powers.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 31 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near transform

Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transform. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on transform

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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