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

The American remake will transpose the story to the United States, most likely in a small town; and will flesh out the character of Andrea’s mother, Teresa Manes, whose unique relationship with her son is one of the film’s emotional anchors. —Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 22 Sep. 2025

South African officials, eager to transpose the moral authority of Mandela to the South African government as a whole, exacerbated the problem by continuously insisting that the government’s policies are consistent and principled. —Michelle Gavin, Foreign Affairs, 17 Sep. 2025

Following the law’s publication in the EU official journal, member states will have 20 months following its entry into force to transpose the rules into national legislation. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 12 Sep. 2025

Where Drive Away Dolls was set in 1999 across the South, Coen and Cooke here transpose their project to Bakersfield, California, in the present day. —Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 26 Aug. 2025