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Synonym Chooser

How is the word tranquil different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of tranquil are calm, peaceful, placid, and serene. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

When is it sensible to use calm instead of tranquil?

In some situations, the words calm and tranquil are roughly equivalent. However, calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When could peaceful be used to replace tranquil?

The synonyms peaceful and tranquil are sometimes interchangeable, but peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When can placid be used instead of tranquil?

The meanings of placid and tranquil largely overlap; however, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is serene a more appropriate choice than tranquil?

The words serene and tranquil are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

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 tranquil Buyers are moving away from light and airy tones, favoring deeper hues that feel modern, tranquil, and organic. Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 17 June 2025 Mercedes uses rich wood trim, white Nappa leather, white silk, and polished aluminum to create an atmosphere that's both tranquil and glamorous. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2025 This is the first time since 1965—that supposedly tranquil year—that a president called out the National Guard without approval of the governor. Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 13 June 2025 That project, a tranquil composition of terracotta, concrete, and terrazzo wrapped in a façade that nods to Saint Laurent’s textile heritage, won Wallpaper’s Best New Public Building in 2018. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for tranquil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tranquil
Adjective
  • Pulse Picks Yes, the MLB trade deadline could be quiet … but there are some big names that could move, too.
    Chris Branch, New York Times, 9 July 2025
  • Both headphones are astonishingly quiet, virtually eliminating lower drone sounds, cutting higher frequency noises like key clicks, and even erasing piercing sounds like dogs barking with a bit of music.
    Ryan Waniata, Wired News, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • Big Momma the alligator is one of his muses, as are curious bobcats and the serene landscape.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 June 2025
  • Looking for a serene beach getaway with lots of nature and no crowds?
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • The 40,000-square-foot Spa Montage, meanwhile, is a destination in itself and includes a peaceful infinity pool surrounded by tropical greenery.
    John Wogan, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
  • An excellent way to unwind from daily stressors, stargazing can serve as a peaceful, mindfulness practice.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • Highlights ranged from a placid morning setting out on Lake Ontario to a crowded afternoon carefully crossing shipping lanes in New York Harbor.
    Taylor Haney, NPR, 18 June 2025
  • Shortly after, the placid family evening was interrupted when, prosecutors alleged, Jenkins’ brother, Jalonie, stabbed her so brutally that her trachea was split in half.
    Madeline Buckley, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • There’s something wonderfully timeless about pushing off from shore in a canoe as the paddles dip quietly through calm water as dragonflies skim by.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
  • What if your government made the calm, rational decision that your country must cease to exist, then set about shutting it down in stages, as the currency became worthless and the population scrambled to emigrate?
    Judy Berman, Time, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • The building creates a sunny garden nook ideal for restful afternoons, allowing the surrounding natural scenery to shine.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 June 2025
  • After a restful off day on Wednesday, Caglianone didn’t need much time to make his 14th career game memorable.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 19 June 2025
Adjective
  • Despite suffering from a severe injury at 13,800 feet, the climber remained responsive and composed.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 9 July 2025
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tranquil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tranquil. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tranquil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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