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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 Olympic rowing takes place on a tranquil, natural or purpose-built lakes. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2025 Unlike King, who has expressed her fear and trepidation about the potential risks of their journey to space, Perry is tranquil. Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 9 Apr. 2025 This unusual space was converted into a short-term rental, making the most of its glass roof and tranquil views Photography by Hervé Goluza April 8, 2025 All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. Annabelle Dufraigne, Architectural Digest, 8 Apr. 2025 At Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden, a tranquil 1.5-acre oasis in the heart of the historic downtown, visitors will find a pond with koi and many examples of Georgia Piedmont plants. Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for tranquil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tranquil
Adjective
  • The drama division had been relatively quiet for a period but suddenly found its stride in the past year with a string of buzzy commissions that will now mostly air under new leadership.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 3 June 2025
  • As romantic distractions fall away, the quiet also makes way for freedom.
    Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • At the Cowboy Carter concert at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Thursday (May 15), the serene moment was interrupted — at least for Blue, who realized the earring in her right ear was caught in Beyoncé’s hair.
    Ashley Iasimone, Billboard, 17 May 2025
  • People who responded to the survey said the Morro Bay campsite was serene and dog-friendly, while also being close to town and nature walks.
    Hannah Poukish, Sacbee.com, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • The attack took place during a peaceful weekly gathering of individuals, walking together to demonstrate solidarity with hostages still held in Gaza by Hamas and to call for their release.
    Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 2 June 2025
  • How peaceful that Nvidia is trying to expand in China.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • They may be used on a placid lake, a lazy river or a backyard pool.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2025
  • The Neshaminy Creek, placid in calm weather, turns treacherous after heavy rains, such as those that fell on Bucks County in the days before his accident.
    JD Mullane, USA Today, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • Few clubs can match Newcastle for its success rate with player arrivals, and that comes from being calm and patient.
    Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • The outburst caused a stunned reaction from the commentators with Carlsen usually known for his calm demeanor.
    Ben Morse, CNN Money, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • Bone broth can be consumed at any time of day—morning, afternoon, or evening—depending on your needs and goals, such as in the morning to boost energy, before or after a workout for hydration and fuel for muscles, or in the evening for restful sleep.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 28 May 2025
  • Create an optimal sleep environment: Use blackout curtains, wear an eye mask, run a white noise machine and avoid electronic devices before bed to ensure restful sleep during daylight hours.
    Marco Buscaglia, Boston Herald, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • Prince Harry arrived at the Court of Appeal about an hour ahead of the hearing, appearing calm and composed.
    Simon Perry, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The Mexican side looked more composed in the second half, creating more scoring opportunities, especially after Sarah Luebbert (former Chicago Red Stars and University of Missouri standout) came on as a substitute and threatened Gotham’s defense.
    Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 21 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tranquil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tranquil. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

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