Synonyms of transform

transform

verb

tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm 

as in to convert

to change in form, appearance, or use

by clicking a few buttons, this toy car can be transformed into a robot

Synonyms & Similar Words

• convert
• remodel
• transfigure
• transmute
• metamorphose
• replace
• rework
• alter
• transpose
• modify
• adjust
• alchemize
• redesign
• transubstantiate
• redefine
• recast
• revise
• make over
• mutate
• reengineer
• distort
• refashion
• deform
• disfigure
• supplant
• regenerate
• redo
• remake
• revamp
• transmogrify
• vary
• substitute
• displace

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 of transform in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Recruited to the post in 1999 by then-Finance Minister Trevor Manuel, Gordhan served as commissioner of the South African Revenue Service for a decade and transformed it into a world-class organization, overhauling its systems and recruiting a new team of highly skilled personnel. —Mike Cohen / Bloomberg, TIME, 13 Sep. 2024

When the gang first learns how to transform, their growing pains are humorous. —Fred Topel, Deadline, 12 Sep. 2024

The light therapy adds a futuristic touch that will transform your at-home experience this fall. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 12 Sep. 2024

For some Peruvians, Fujimori’s domestic victories transformed him from a political outsider to the strongman the country needed. —Lauren Said-Moorhouse, CNN, 12 Sep. 2024