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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
  • Once a quiet fishing village, Nazaré, Portugal, is home to some of the world's largest rideable waves, reaching up to 100 feet.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • In between, are patio tables with umbrellas and other shady spots to sit for a while and take in the serene surroundings.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 12 July 2025
  • Finally, the third gallery room attempts to project a cooler, more verdant future with walls colored a serene green hue.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Carlos Montes, a longtime leader with Centro CSO, said the organization’s events, including protests, have always been peaceful and organized.
    Victoria Elena Valenzuela, USA Today, 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
  • His face is as placid as a god’s, affixing a category to each letter.
    Rick Barot, New Yorker, 9 June 2025
  • While some are more placid and don't mind being treated, there are others who can get very stressed by their unknown environment, including Percy the cat.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025
Adjective
  • Thursday morning’s efforts included six private vessels and a Marine Rescue team, though what was puzzling to some was how calm the sea conditions were and the small amount of wind and swell.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 11 July 2025
  • Think smooth shores sloping gently into calm waves and views framed by palm trees.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 11 July 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 16 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tranquil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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