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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 Republicans have called on Underly to make the DPI's approach to investigating teacher licensing more transparent. Kayla Huynh, jsonline.com, 5 Nov. 2025 Best practices range from transparent pricing backed by data to trust-building expertise, financial incentives, and simple seller experiences for resale. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 Nov. 2025 The black Nightfreeze and silver Cryo variants with transparent backs start at $849, with more storage and RAM. New Atlas, 4 Nov. 2025 Matheson was slightly more transparent, but only slightly. Arpon Basu, New York Times, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • There, a dock sits almost level with the crystal-blue water—the same color as the fervedouros—and wooden steps descend into the cool water.
    Aaron Randolph, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Laidback Fun The crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez provided dramatic views from our suite’s balcony and easygoing beach days.
    Jasmine Purdie, Parents, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Hours before kickoff on Monday, the three-time NFL defensive player of the clear sent a clear plea to YouTube TV and ESPN.
    Matt Audilet, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Nov. 2025
  • Nowhere was that clearer than in midfield, where the complementary attributes of Freddie Potts, Lucas Paqueta and Mateus Fernandes provided a well-balanced engine room.
    Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • But seemingly by sheer willpower, Meredith holds out her hand, which sends the liquid back in the opposite direction toward Britani.
    Tom Smyth, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The actress dares to bare her briefs in this Ulla Johnson set featuring a shockingly sheer skirt teamed with a ombré effect sequin top.
    Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Dip the apple into the liquid candy and rotate it to coat evenly.
    Cody Godwin, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025
  • Before using fabric softener, always check the care label and, in general, avoid the use of liquid fabric softener and dryer sheets when laundering flame resistant children's sleepwear, workout gear, and towels.
    Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The look is finished off with an icy translucent rubber outsole.
    Riley Jones, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Some had translucent skin and no discernible bones.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • For swimmers, the sheltered, crystalline bay can feel like a natural pool.
    Carla Vianna, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The crystalline knowledge runs deep.
    Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on transparent

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