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 Nothing quite compares to fall in New England, when the entire region transforms into a patchwork of fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges. Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 20 Sep. 2025 Though Emily in Paris will not transform into Emily in Rome, Season 4’s finale left off suggesting its main character would be leading the Italian satellite office for Agence Grateau. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 20 Sep. 2025 Words of caution However, AJ Bell's Coatsworth also suggested that investors shouldn't expect Blackstone's capital commitments to rapidly transform the outlook for Britain. Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 19 Sep. 2025 In transforming Derrick’s from a mere amenity to a full-scale foodie paradise, where meals are made from scratch daily, Black Gold and Kemper Sports continue to make the experience about more than just the golf. Greg Mellen, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for transform
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transform
Verb
  • They were converted from firing nuclear missiles to conducting conventional land attacks and are armed with up to 154 Tomahawk missiles, each with a range of 1,000 miles.
    Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Kickstarter supporters can also opt to have Nomad convert their current bike to an e-bike for $2,000.
    William Roberson, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Plans also call for remodeling the existing southern section into 3,700 square feet of additional commercial space, split evenly between two storefronts.
    Adrienne Davis, jsonline.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • It was remodeled in the 1960’s and renamed City Barber Shop.
    Stephanie Ogilvie, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • According to sources, Alchemised began as Dramione before being transfigured into a dark romantasy.
    Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2025
  • The Davis Center opened last month, transfiguring six acres at the north end of Central Park.
    Michael Kimmelman, New York Times, 29 May 2025
Verb
  • All would be transmuted, lightly, into fiction.
    Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Nuclear reactors, where heavy elements were transmuted into lighter ones, released antineutrinos that could be absorbed by atomic nuclei outside of the reactor, leading to their discovery.
    Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 28 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Transform.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transform. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on transform

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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