TRANSPARENT Synonyms: 54 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'transparent' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of transparent are clear , limpid , and translucent . While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly. // a transparent sheet of film

Q: When is it sensible to use 'clear' instead of 'transparent'?

The words clear and transparent can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness. // clear water

Q: When can 'limpid' be used instead of 'transparent'?

The words limpid and transparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water. // her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Q: Where would 'translucent' be a reasonable alternative to 'transparent'?

The meanings of translucent and transparent largely overlap; however, translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond. // translucent frosted glass

transparent

adjective

tran(t)s-ˈper-ənt

Definition of transparent next

as in crystal

easily seen through bottles of blue transparent glass

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in clear

not subject to misinterpretation or more than one interpretation his meaning in leaving the conversation is transparent: he doesn't want to talk about his combat experiences

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in sheer

very thin and easy to see through flowy summer dresses made partly of chiffon or other transparent fabrics

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective transparent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of transparent are clear, limpid, and translucent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

When is it sensible to use clear instead of transparent?

The words clear and transparent can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When can limpid be used instead of transparent?

The words limpid and transparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Where would translucent be a reasonable alternative to transparent?

The meanings of translucent and transparent largely overlap; however, translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

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 transparent Be transparent about these decisions. —

Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026 The use of emergency certifications, shortened timelines, and limits on testimony all move us further away from the open and transparent government our residents deserve. —

State Sen. Tony Hwang, Hartford Courant, 22 Mar. 2026 Nuggets coach David Adelman wanted to be transparent with him and fellow veteran guard Bruce Brown. —

Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 22 Mar. 2026 In San Diego Unified School District, leaders last year adopted new policies to govern their school renaming process, after a messy renaming prompted complaints that the district wasn’t being transparent. —

Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent

Adjective

Cowbells are ringing out, the stands are full, and the sun is shining under a crystal blue sky.

— Sean Nevin, NBC news, 18 Feb. 2026
The combination of starches gives the dough its crystal appearance and a chewy texture.

— Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 4 Feb. 2026