Synonyms of transform

transform

verb

tran(t)s-ˈfȯrm 

as in to convert

to change in form, appearance, or use

by clicking a few buttons, this toy car can be transformed into a robot

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

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

Recent Examples of transform

And United Way’s 211 call center in North Carolina, which typically connects people with health and social services, transformed into a missing person reporting network at the request of the state's government. —Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY, 28 Feb. 2025

Franco’s famous 1988 black bra dress, meanwhile, was transformed, in Appiolaza’s hands, into a chic cocktail dress. —Chiara Barzini, Vogue, 28 Feb. 2025

In 1902 or 1903, Mensing transformed the second floor of his penny arcade into a movie theater. —Michael Wells, Kansas City Star, 28 Feb. 2025

In 2017, Fort Worth ISD transformed five chronically underperforming campuses —Mitchell Boulevard, Como, John T. White, and Maude I. Logan elementary schools and Forest Oak Middle School — into leadership academies as part of a $5.5 million effort to boost academic performance at those schools. —Silas Allen, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Feb. 2025