WordGarden.iotransform
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /trænsˈfɔːm/verb
US
- /ˈtrænsfɔrm/
Meanings
Verb
to change something greatly in form, appearance, or character
to change data, code, or digital content into another structure or representation
Noun
a mathematical operation that converts a function or expression into another form
Beyond the definition
To transform something is to change it so much that it becomes very different. Think of a caterpillar turning into a butterfly: it is not just growing, it is becoming something new. You can transform your living room with a fresh coat of paint, or transform yourself by learning a new skill. Sometimes this kind of change happens slowly over time, like the way a city changes as new buildings, shops, and people arrive. Other times, it is sudden and dramatic, like when water turns into ice. The word suggests a deep change in form, appearance, or character.
The word "transform" means to make a thorough or dramatic change in the form, appearance, or character of something. It goes beyond simple alteration; transformation implies a complete reshaping, often resulting in something unrecognizable from its original state.
You might read about a hero's transformative journey in a novel, where they undergo significant personal growth and become a different person by the end. Or you could witness the transformation of a run-down building into a vibrant community center. Transformation isn't limited to physical changes either; it can describe emotional or spiritual shifts.
In science, transformation has specific meanings — like in genetics, where bacteria can be transformed by absorbing DNA from other sources. In mathematics, a transformation is a function that maps points from one space to another.
The word carries a sense of power and potential. It suggests not just change, but becoming something more, something different, something new. Whether it's a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, an idea evolving into innovation, or a person finding their true self — transformation is about fundamental, lasting change.
Examples
- 1
Home improvement
New paint and better lighting transformed the small kitchen.
- 2
Public space
Over the summer, the empty lot was transformed into a playground.
- 3
Town development
In twenty years, the town transformed from a quiet fishing village into a busy tourist center.
- Patternfrom + old state into + new state
showing the old state and the new one
- 4
Life change
Winning the scholarship transformed her life.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Shopping habits
The internet has transformed the way people shop.
- Patterntransform the way + clause
completely change how something is done
- 6
Personal growth
He was transformed by the experience of living abroad.
- Patterntransformed by + cause
deeply changed because of it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- transform into
- transform the way
- transform a business
- completely transform
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- transformnounverb
Forms
- transformedpast tenseverbnoun
- transforming-ing formverbnoun
- transformspluralnounverb