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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 Towering trees and lush greenery at the reclaimed Limestone rock quarry set a romantic and tranquil tone. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 22 May 2025 But rather than a joyful but tranquil parade down the stage during the commencement ceremony, what happened instead was a high-speed foot chase, as Al Arab sprinted across the stage, clutching his baby boy, with a university police officer darting behind him. Alana Wise, NPR, 22 May 2025 Often overlooked by its more popular neighboring regions in Spain, Extremadura offers a tranquil getaway that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. Carlsen Jes, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2025 The design of all suites on the property emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with tranquil views and tropical foliage. AFAR Media, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for tranquil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tranquil
Adjective
  • For those looking to venture farther, Cruz Bay’s private itineraries stretch deep into the BVI, blending gourmet dining, reef diving, and quiet anchorages into one seamless luxurious adventure.
    Tanya Benedicto Klich, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025
  • Ideally, your room is dark, quiet and cool — think between 65 and 75 degrees.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 June 2025
Adjective
  • Six Senses Ibiza Wade into the serene waters of Xarraca Bay while staying at Six Senses Ibiza, a 137-room hotel on the northern edge of the island.
    Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • Tucked into the verdant hills above Cannes, France, in a coveted residential enclave known as Lower California, Villa Nicky overlooks the shimmering Mediterranean with a serene, almost cinematic quality.
    Gay Gassmann, Architectural Digest, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Iran says its uranium enrichment program is for peaceful purposes.
    Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 14 June 2025
  • What started as peaceful demonstrations turned chaotic.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 13 June 2025
Adjective
  • The filmmaking matches the placid discontent of the characters.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 13 June 2025
  • Its setting once bore the rich grandeur of the Northwest, framed by mountains, royal robes of evergreens trailing into the placid harbor of Commencement Bay.
    Caroline Fraser June 10, Literary Hub, 10 June 2025
Adjective
  • These calm and gentle activities by the sea have restorative benefits and are increasingly featured as part of wellness retreats.
    Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
  • The protests, which were mostly calm and peaceful, were held in opposition to President Donald Trump's policies and coincided with the controversial parade for the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary in Washington, D.C.
    Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet to create an environment that supports restful sleep.
    Lindsay Curtis, Health, 12 June 2025
  • Cozy Cardamom Immune + Sleep product contains ashwagandha and reishi, as well as passionflower, and helps promote restful sleep.
    Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 June 2025
Adjective
  • McIlroy looked composed and steady at 2-under through nine.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 June 2025
  • De Armas doesn’t make the mistake of looking too composed, or making the vigorous smackdowns look effortless.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tranquil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tranquil. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tranquil

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