Definition of transparentnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective transparent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of transparent are clear, limpid, and translucent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

When is it sensible to use clear instead of transparent?

The words clear and transparent can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When can limpid be used instead of transparent?

The words limpid and transparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Where would translucent be a reasonable alternative to transparent?

The meanings of translucent and transparent largely overlap; however, translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

Example 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 transparent These marketing boards run mandis (market yards) where produce is sold only to licensed buyers through a transparent auction process. Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Aug. 2026 Each product features an interactive DPP widget on the product page, providing transparent access to detailed fabric composition, sustainability metrics and supplier information. Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 17 Aug. 2026 Elsewhere, attendees will no doubt flock to the Sicilian Oranges dome clock, joyfully rendered in a rich palette of transparent, opalescent and opaque enamels in 49 colours, coupled with miniature enamel painting in more than five pastel hues. Ming Liu, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026 Venus does cast a shadow, but the sky must be very dark, transparent and free of any light — apparently. Jamie Carter, Space.com, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • O’Connor’s face filled the screen, her crystal-blue eyes piercing me in my own living room.
    Jayson Greene, Pitchfork, 25 July 2026
  • Beside the dessert sat a crystal coupe overflowing with Caramelized Shallot Dip from Every Leaf, Every Stem.
    Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • As the plane descends, a lush landscape of verdant mountains that flow down into charming villages, beaches, and the crystal-clear waters beyond appears.
    Connor Sturges, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Four of the eight resulted in gains and four in losses, underscoring the lack of a clear directional signal.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 18 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Other governments, including the US, have their own rules and disclosure requirements, but beyond the breadth of the controls in China, the sheer number of people affected is striking – and reaches far beyond civil servants.
    Sylvie Zhuang, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026
  • Just look at the new stand — the sheer size of it shows the club’s ambition.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Start with three to six months of living expenses in an accessible liquid savings account.
    Angie O’Leary, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • On the other hand, liquid batteries lose significant efficiency in freezing conditions.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Add the diced Spanish onion and sauté until softened and translucent.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026
  • For a minimalist look, pair this soft pink, translucent finish with a short square shape to achieve the ultimate clean-girl aesthetic.
    Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 8 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • These may be restored heritage buildings in European capitals, villa collections overlooking crystalline waters, or—notably in 2025 and 2026—luxury lodges set in deserts, forests, and mountains.
    Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026
  • That’s a smile piece, too, although Ono looks all business holding a crystalline hammer on the catalog cover photo.
    Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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