metamorphosis

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "metamorphosis" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a major change in form, structure, or appearance. For example: "The caterpillar underwent a remarkable metamorphosis before emerging as a beautiful butterfly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Indeed, how much of his metamorphosis was inevitable?

The Guardian

Lynas's metamorphosis gathered real pace when he started work on his 2004 book High Tide.

The Guardian

In between, this frustrated fortysomething - disliked by his wife, scorned by his daughter, humiliated by his colleagues - undergoes a startling metamorphosis.

The Guardian - Film

Serving 120 hours for assaulting a lavatory attendant in 2003 did nothing to slow the metamorphosis of Cheryl Tweedy of Girls Aloud into Cheryl Cole, solo star and, for a short while, the nation's sweetheart.

The Guardian - Opinion

The events of the previous episodes suggested a metamorphosis.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"They take more than six months to transform into frogs and metamorphosis is dramatic, even in frog terms.

The Guardian

If Ms Rice has much of a political future beyond George Bush's White House, I fear for the welfare of her potential constituents.Paul KelloggNew YorkKafka in AmericaSIR – I wish Lexington had quoted Gregor Samsa's sister in the article on George Bush's metamorphosis (October 4th).

The Economist

His signature became a butterfly, a symbol of his artistic metamorphosis.

The Economist

That is despite the metamorphosis of many into for-profit companies keen to consolidate across national and even continental boundaries.

The Economist

An even greater distance divides the shadowy father of the early Christian church from the homes and department stores of America and northern Europe, where Santa now occupies centre-stage in the Christmas narrative, edging out the Nativity.This metamorphosis provides the theme for Jeremy Seal's jaunty, readable travelogue-cum-biography.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Murdoch discount might, in time, even have turned into a Murdoch premium.Now News Corporation has become stuck mid-metamorphosis.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "metamorphosis" to describe significant and transformative changes, especially when referring to a complete alteration in form or character.

Common error

Avoid using "metamorphosis" to describe trivial or superficial alterations. Reserve it for changes that are profound and fundamental.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "metamorphosis" is as a noun. It refers to a complete or marked change of physical form, structure, or substance. Examples from Ludwig showcase its usage across diverse contexts to describe profound transformations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "metamorphosis" functions as a noun, describing a significant and transformative change. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness for use in written English. It is most commonly found in news, formal business contexts, and scientific literature, indicating a neutral to formal register. While the word suggests a marked change of physical form, structure, or substance, it is crucial to reserve it for only the most profound changes, rather than applying it to trivial scenarios. Related terms include ""transformation"", "evolution", and "conversion", each carrying slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

transformation

This alternative refers to a complete change in form or appearance, similar to "metamorphosis" but more general.

evolution

This term implies a gradual development or change over time, akin to a more prolonged "metamorphosis".

conversion

This suggests a change in belief or character, a more specific type of "metamorphosis".

transmutation

Implies a change in nature or substance, often associated with alchemy or magic, suggesting a more dramatic "metamorphosis".

sea change

This refers to a major or fundamental transformation, similar to "metamorphosis" but often used in a broader context.

remodeling

Focuses on structural or physical changes, which can be a part of "metamorphosis".

revamping

This term refers to renovating or improving something, a specific kind of "metamorphosis" focused on enhancement.

reconstruction

This term implies rebuilding or restoring, which can involve a significant "metamorphosis".

reorganization

Focuses on changes in structure or arrangement, which could be part of a larger "metamorphosis".

recasting

Suggests a change in role or presentation, a specific aspect of "metamorphosis" focused on representation.

FAQs

How to use "metamorphosis" in a sentence?

You can use "metamorphosis" to describe a significant change in form or character. For example, "The company underwent a complete "transformation", a true metamorphosis."

What can I say instead of "metamorphosis"?

You can use alternatives like ""transformation"", "evolution", or "conversion" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "metamorphosis" or "transformation"?

"Metamorphosis" and ""transformation"" are both correct, but "metamorphosis" often implies a more dramatic and complete change, similar to the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly.

What's the difference between "metamorphosis" and "evolution"?

"Metamorphosis" refers to a sudden and distinct change, while "evolution" suggests a gradual development over time. A metamorphosis implies a fundamental shift, whereas evolution suggests a step-by-step progression.