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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 With over 250,000 users, the brand has built its reputation on word-of-mouth and transparent reviews. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 20 May 2025 If the old guard in public health was at times inclined to paper over uncomfortable debates, this new one might be zealously transparent. Daniel Engber, The Atlantic, 20 May 2025 No matter how meticulous evidence is gathered, its value can diminish without transparent, comprehensive reporting. Beth Worthy, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 There is a critical opportunity for brands to lead the charge in redefining value—not by focusing on price tags, but by investing in ethical production, sustainable materials and transparent supply chains. Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • Use just your fingertips when washing the rim of a crystal glass, for instance.
    Katie Akin, Southern Living, 6 Apr. 2025
  • For fashion's biggest night, Megan went for classic glamour in a custom Michael Kors Collection optic white lace goddess gown with crystal hand embroidery and an optic white faux fox opera coat with a sequin lining.
    Rachel McRady, People.com, 6 May 2025
Adjective
  • Just clear structure, early accountability and transparent expectations.
    Ryan Hohman, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • However the trade war ends, the message from American industry is clear: there can be no going back to the pre-Trump U.S.-China economic relationship.
    John Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Some of music’s biggest names (and harshest critics) have marveled at the sheer range of Darin’s work, which spanned everything from jazz, swing and pop to folk and country.
    Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 22 May 2025
  • Most advice about LinkedIn growth focuses on sheer numbers.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • The ultimate aim, though, is liquid cooling with fewer moving parts (apart from Noctua’s already quiet fans) and no vibration.
    John Burek, PC Magazine, 28 May 2025
  • While whisky can often be considered a liquid investment, please do not listen to any broker who compares the market liquidity to that of an individual savings account (ISA).
    Oliver Court, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • But in terms of the excitement and electricity, the parallels between Verlander and Skubal are obvious.
    Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 29 May 2025
  • AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines told Newsweek the most obvious impact from the smoke would be hazy skies, which could contribute to visually beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the affected areas.
    Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • There are five shades available—translucent to complexion toned—each packed with a finely mille powder to set makeup without budging.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 23 May 2025
  • That ties in with reports that the software Apple will announce is predicted to have more of the translucent feel of Apple Vision Pro menus.
    Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Every detail is considered, down to the most straightforward dish on the menu and its namesake.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 26 May 2025
  • But unlike those diseases, there’s a fairly straightforward way to detect NPH and address some of its most debilitating symptoms.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Ukraine goes into this second round of direct talks bolstered by its apparent destruction of Russian strategic bombers and other crucial air assets.
    Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 2 June 2025
  • Wolff did admit that seeing the positives were difficult, aside from the apparent step in tire management.
    Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 2 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

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