Synonym Chooser

How is the word transform different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of transform are convert, metamorphose, transfigure, transmogrify, and transmute. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

When would convert be a good substitute for transform?

The words convert and transform are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When is metamorphose a more appropriate choice than transform?

While the synonyms metamorphose and transform are close in meaning, metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

When is it sensible to use transfigure instead of transform?

The words transfigure and transform can be used in similar contexts, but transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When might transmogrify be a better fit than transform?

In some situations, the words transmogrify and transform are roughly equivalent. However, transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

When can transmute be used instead of transform?

The synonyms transmute and transform are sometimes interchangeable, but transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

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 transform Then, in the ’60s, Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss transformed it into recording studios for their newly booming A&M label. Benjamin Svetkey, HollywoodReporter, 23 July 2025 Sacha Baron Cohen has officially joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe — and transformed his physique in the process. Tommy McArdle, People.com, 23 July 2025 How humanoid robots could transform healthcare and hospital staffing This is the first major study to add humanoid robots to hospital work systems. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 22 July 2025 Advertisement Taken together, these developments would shift the balance of power in the populists’ favor, transforming how the E.U. defines its values and its interests. Ian Bremmer, Time, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for transform
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
Verb
  • The Mets converted Butto from a starter to a reliever last year with good results at first, but the right-hander struggled toward the end of the season and in the postseason.
    Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 30 July 2025
  • Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, convert food into energy that the cell can use.
    Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 30 July 2025
Verb
  • That changed in January 2020 when the administration moved employees into the unoccupied 101 Ash Street building, only to evacuate it because city contractors had released asbestos while remodeling.
    U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 July 2025
  • The racetrack opened in 1927; the Post and Paddock Club followed two years later and was periodically remodeled.
    Ron Grossman, Chicago Tribune, 27 July 2025
Verb
  • The Davis Center opened last month, transfiguring six acres at the north end of Central Park.
    Michael Kimmelman, New York Times, 29 May 2025
  • In each instance, the duties of the office transfigured the man into a sign and symbol of hope in the face of death.
    The Editors, National Review, 21 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Unparalleled at spotting the absurd and transmuting it into comic relief, turning what stings into what saves us.
    Lynette Rice, Deadline, 9 July 2025
  • Turning to drawing as a way to transmute her emotions, Ojih Odutola became a vessel for stories that seemed to write themselves, drawing deeply from her Igbo and Yoruba heritage.
    Essence, Essence, 17 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transform. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on transform

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