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Synonym Chooser

How is the word tranquil different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of tranquil are calm, peaceful, placid, and serene. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

When is it sensible to use calm instead of tranquil?

In some situations, the words calm and tranquil are roughly equivalent. However, calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When could peaceful be used to replace tranquil?

The synonyms peaceful and tranquil are sometimes interchangeable, but peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When can placid be used instead of tranquil?

The meanings of placid and tranquil largely overlap; however, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is serene a more appropriate choice than tranquil?

The words serene and tranquil are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

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 tranquil Moving at a tranquil pace, Shyne primarily watches Head and Carlie Williams, an 89-year-old farmer in Thomas County, Georgia, tend to their land and their people. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Jan. 2025 The patio is a tranquil haven that feels miles away from the traditional street food stalls, noisy cafes, and always-busy Mercado de Medellín just below it. Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2025 Accessible only by a scenic hike or kayak, this pristine spot offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views. Melissa Noel, Essence, 15 Jan. 2025 Its prose is tranquil, pellucid, and naturalistic, favoring dialogue over introspection or philosophy. Sam Sacks, Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for tranquil 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tranquil
Adjective
  • Amidst a sea of partygoers in wild outfits galore, Zoë Kravitz reminded us that sometimes breaking the rules can be a quiet act.
    Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2025
  • Oh, and there’s no prize, except the quiet satisfaction of a job well done.
    The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 14 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Windham’s exclusive 1,200-acre mountain, with an elevation of 3,100 feet, is known for its pristine, uncrowded slopes—providing the perfect setting for an intimate and serene ski experience.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 Feb. 2025
  • However, there’s no doubt the wellness oasis is every bit as thoughtful and serene as the rest of the property.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Twenty-six percent favor it, with 23% supporting a peaceful acquisition and 3% supporting the potential use of force.
    Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025
  • Medical retreats are often located in tranquil settings—think serene beaches, lush forests, or peaceful mountains—that naturally promote relaxation.
    Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • In the show’s first two seasons, Laura’s murder broke open a placid American town—much as a severed ear, in Lynch’s 1986 film, Blue Velvet, famously undermined middle America’s saintly image of itself.
    K. Austin Collins, The Atlantic, 7 Feb. 2025
  • The Kremlin’s task for 2025, then, is to maintain a placid population.
    Andrei Kolesnikov, Foreign Affairs, 23 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Designed for moments of escape and calm, this walled section is especially attractive for those with sensory challenges.
    Frances MacDougall, Southern Living, 17 Feb. 2025
  • If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, the department says to stay calm but act quickly.
    Sarah Linn, Sacramento Bee, 15 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Aim for at least 7 hours of restful sleep each night.
    Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 20 Jan. 2025
  • Here are some experts’ strategies to make long flights more restful.
    Melissa Clark, New York Times, 27 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The 17-year-old, composed and well prepared, rattled off data about the need for youth involvement in civic decision-making.
    Mará Rose Williams, Kansas City Star, 28 Jan. 2025
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly, the local hero, all boyhood Arsenal spirit wrapped into a mature and composed performance, whooped buoyantly at the crowd when he was barged towards the nearest exit.
    Amy Lawrence, The Athletic, 15 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near tranquil

Cite this Entry

“Tranquil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tranquil. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tranquil

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