transform

USAGE SUMMARY

"transform" is a word that is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb that means "to change in form, appearance, or structure; metamorphose". Example Sentence: The caterpillar transforms into a butterfly once it finishes building its cocoon.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With a diverse range of courses taught by award-winning experts, you're sure to find a gift to make anyone's day – or a course that will transform your 2015.

The Guardian

A game where it's possible to "refuse" the basic Jungian call to adventure in an alien world and instead transform the world you live in.

The Guardian - Opinion

But these proposals will transform the universal right to justice into a commercial privilege.

The Guardian - Opinion

Women have a unique and important opportunity to transform philanthropic priorities and set new standards of giving.

The Guardian

A: It declared in 2013 that it intended to transform itself into that.

The Guardian

The Department of Health said that the number of cancelled operations were "very low" and that its plans to transform how care is delivered would ultimately reduce pressure on hospitals.

The Guardian

He told the crowd of flag waving attendees on the sunny shore of Lake Champlain, "Today, with your support and the support of millions of people throughout this country, we begin a political revolution to transform our country economically, politically, socially and environmentally".

The Guardian

All of which might make sense if the English were any good at this game, or had been since the best of the rest cottoned on and began to transform this brilliantly simple sport into a vigorous practical science, rather than just a place of lucrative tribalism and cartoonish operetta.

The Guardian - Sport

GMG Radio - whose parent company Guardian Media Group also publishes MediaGuardian.co.uk - is seeking to transform its London jazz, blues and R&B station Smooth into an easy-listening station for the over-50s, and the figures bear out that some sort of change is needed.

The Guardian

Ultimately though, it is only irrefutable and irreversible economic development that can transform global perceptions about African countries.

The Guardian - Opinion

Via his YouTube alias, sunsetcorp, there was his version – or "echo jam", as Lopatin labels it – of Chris de Burgh's ghastly 80s hit Lady in Red, which used various synth and looping techniques to transform it into a work of such disarming, heart-rending beauty that it prompted comments ranging from "the single greatest experience I have ever had" to "the sole reason YouTube should exist".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "transform" to convey a significant change in form, appearance, or nature. For subtle changes, consider alternatives like "modify" or "adjust".

Common error

Avoid using "transform" when the change is superficial or insignificant. Opt for words like "adjust", "tweak", or "modify" to accurately reflect the degree of alteration.

Linguistic Context

The word "transform" functions primarily as a verb, indicating the action of changing something in form, appearance, or character. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "transform" is used to describe various types of changes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The verb "transform" signifies a notable change in form, appearance, or nature, and Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across diverse contexts. It's a versatile word frequently found in news media and general informational sources, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While "transform" is widely accepted and grammatically sound, it's important to reserve it for significant alterations and avoid overuse in trivial contexts. Consider synonyms like "convert", "alter", or "modify" for subtle changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

convert

Focuses on changing something into a different form or state.

alter

Implies making a change without necessarily creating something entirely new.

modify

Suggests making specific changes to improve or adapt something.

remodel

Emphasizes restructuring or redesigning something, often physically.

metamorphose

Implies a dramatic or complete change in form or character.

reconstruct

Focuses on rebuilding or reassembling something, often after damage.

renovate

Suggests restoring or improving something to a better condition.

revamp

Implies giving something a new and improved form or appearance.

recast

Focuses on reshaping or reorganizing something, often a story or idea.

transmute

Suggests changing something into a different substance or element.

FAQs

How can I use "transform" in a sentence?

You can use "transform" to describe a significant change in something. For example, "The caterpillar will "transform" into a butterfly".

What are some synonyms for "transform"?

Some synonyms for "transform" include "convert", "alter", and "modify". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "transform into"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "transform into" is commonly used to indicate the result of a transformation. For example, "Water can "transform into" ice".

What's the difference between "transform" and "change"?

"Change" is a broader term for any kind of alteration. "Transform" implies a more profound and significant change, often involving a change in form or nature. For instance, a caterpillar "transforms" into a butterfly, but you might simply "change" your clothes.