Synonyms of transpose

transpose

verb

tran(t)s-ˈpōz 

1

as in to transform

to change in form, appearance, or use

the snappy pop song was transposed into a ballad through a reworking of instrumentation and a change in key

Synonyms & Similar Words

• transform
• convert
• transmute
• metamorphose
• rework
• transfigure
• replace
• remodel
• adjust
• modify
• alter
• alchemize
• recast
• transubstantiate
• revise
• make over
• redefine
• mutate
• redesign
• refashion
• reengineer
• distort
• remake
• deform
• redo
• supplant
• regenerate
• disfigure
• transmogrify
• substitute
• revamp
• vary
• displace

2

as in to remove

to change the place or position of

after the ex-governor's scandals belatedly came to light, his portrait was transposed to a quiet corner of the statehouse

Synonyms & Similar Words

• remove
• move
• relocate
• transfer
• shift
• transport
• disturb
• replace
• convey
• carry
• displace
• reposition
• dislocate
• transmit
• budge
• haul
• modify
• drive
• alter
• revise
• supplant
• supersede
• lug
• tote
• bear
• transplant
• cart
• vary
• rework
• remake
• remodel
• redo
• refashion
• revamp
• make over

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• stabilize
• secure
• fix
• freeze
• anchor
• moor
• embed
• root
• entrench
• implant
• lodge
• ingrain

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb transpose contrast with its synonyms?

The words invert and reverse are common synonyms of transpose. While all three words mean "to change to the opposite position," transpose implies a change in order or relative position of units often through exchange of position.

transposed the letters to form an anagram

When could invert be used to replace transpose?

The synonyms invert and transpose are sometimes interchangeable, but invert applies chiefly to turning upside down or inside out.

the number 9 looks like an inverted 6

In what contexts can reverse take the place of transpose?

The words reverse and transpose can be used in similar contexts, but reverse is the most general term and may imply change in order, side, direction, meaning.

reversed his position on the trade agreement

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of transpose

Like his younger brother, Nick wore 17 in Chicago but agreed to transpose the digits in Minnesota and take 71. —Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 9 Mar. 2026

Director Harry Lighton transposed the story from the 1970s to the present, casting a hulking Alexander Skarsgård as the gorgeous and emotionally remote biker Ray, and Melling as the shy, diminutive parking attendant who submits himself to Ray. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 20 Feb. 2026

Sun Ra said to transpose them for every other instrument. —Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026

One of last week's most heated controversies was over a video the president posted on Truth Social that included a clip in which former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama's faces were transposed on a monkey-like illustration. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 10 Feb. 2026