Transformations: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term suitable for any modification, regardless of scale. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• Change is inevitable in life.
• He decided it was time for a career change.

Appropriate for minor or moderate changes, often used in the context of clothes or small modifications.

• She took the dress to the tailor for some alterations.
• The house underwent several alterations before they moved in.

Used particularly when something is changed from one form, function, or system to another, often implying a complete switch.

• The building's conversion from a factory to a residential complex was successful.
• She celebrated her conversion to a new religion.

Used to describe significant or profound changes, often involving complete shifts in form, function, or appearance.

• The city has undergone major transformations over the past decade
• The caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a butterfly is a remarkable transformation

Indicates a change in the nature, form, or function of something, often used in technical, religious, or financial contexts.

• The old factory was scheduled for conversion into apartments
• His conversion to a new religion was surprising to many of his friends

Implies a small or partial change to something, usually to improve it or make it more suitable for a purpose.

• The car received some modifications to improve its performance
• We made a few modifications to the original recipe to enhance the flavor

Refers to changes made to fit a new environment or different conditions, often for survival or better performance.

• The animal’s thick fur is an adaptation to cold climates
• She has done an excellent job of adaptation to her new workplace

Use for general changes or alterations in form, appearance, nature, or character, especially when these changes are significant but not necessarily magical or dramatic.

• The city underwent several transformations over the last decade.
• Her transformations after the extensive training were remarkable.

Best used to describe a profound change often biologically oriented, such as the life cycle of animals and insects, or metaphorically describing a deep, often positive transformation in character or appearance.

• The caterpillar's metamorphosis into a butterfly is fascinating.
• He went through a personal metamorphosis after traveling the world.

Typically used in a religious, mythological, or literary context to describe an exalted, glorified, or higher form of transformation. Often carries a sense of divine or supernatural change.

• The story of the transfiguration of Jesus is told in the Bible.
• Her transfiguration in the character was truly uplifting to witness.

Commonly associated with the change of one substance or element into another, especially in scientific or alchemical contexts. Can also imply a significant alteration in the nature or essence of something.

• Alchemy involves the transmutation of base metals into gold.
• The novelist explored the transmutation of society's values over time.