Transition: meaning, definitions and examples

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transition

[trænˈzɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

change

The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

Synonyms

changeover, conversion, shift.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transition	Used when describing the process of moving from one state or condition to another. Often implies a gradual or smooth process. The transition from high school to college can be challenging for some students. We are in the midst of a transition to a more digital workplace.
changeover	Typically used in contexts where there is a switch from one system, method, or piece of equipment to another. Often implies a more mechanical or systematic process. The changeover from the old software to the new one will happen this weekend. There was a quick changeover between the two performers during the concert.
conversion	Often used when something is completely transformed or repurposed into something else. Common in technical, religious, or business contexts. The conversion of the warehouse into apartments took several months. He underwent a conversion to Buddhism after years of searching for spiritual meaning.
shift	Used to describe a change in position, direction, or focus. Can imply a slight or significant movement. There is a clear shift in public opinion regarding climate change. We need to shift our strategy to stay competitive in the market.

Examples of usage

The transition from childhood to adulthood can be challenging.
The company is going through a transition phase as they implement new strategies.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

passage

A passage in a piece of writing that smoothly connects two different sections.

Synonyms

bridge, connection, link.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transition	Used when describing a change from one state or condition to another. The transition from high school to college can be challenging. We need to manage the transition to a digital workplace carefully.
connection	Used when referring to a relationship between people, concepts, or things that interact or relate to each other. There is a strong connection between diet and health. I felt an immediate connection with my new colleague.
link	Used when describing a piece in a series that forms a chain or a relationship between two things. It can also be used in the context of internet hyperlinks. Each link in the chain is crucial for its strength. Can you send me the link to the article?
bridge	Used when referring to a physical structure that spans an obstacle or a metaphorical connection that helps to overcome a gap. The bridge over the river is a vital part of the city's infrastructure. We need to bridge the gap between our departments to improve communication.

Examples of usage

The author used a transitional sentence to create a smooth transition between paragraphs.
The transition between the introduction and the main body of the essay was seamless.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

move

Undergo or cause to undergo a process or period of transition.

Synonyms

change, convert, shift.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transition	Use to describe the process or period of changing from one state or condition to another, often emphasizing the journey. The company is in transition as it moves to a new office Her transition from student to professional was smooth
change	Suitable for a broad range of contexts where something becomes different or switches from one thing to another, typically used in everyday language. She decided to change her hairstyle There will be a change in the schedule
shift	Best used when referring to a slight or gradual move from one position or condition to another, sometimes implying a subtle or minor change. There has been a shift in public opinion on this matter She felt a shift in her mood after the news
convert	Often used when something is being transformed into a completely different state or form, especially in technical or religious contexts. They plan to convert the old factory into apartments He converted to a different religion last year

Examples of usage

The team is transitioning to a new project management system.
She transitioned from a career in finance to one in marketing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'transitio', meaning 'to go across' or 'to move from one place to another.'
It is made up of 'trans-', meaning 'across', and '-ire', which means 'to go' in Latin.
The term has been used in English since the 14th century, originally relating to changes in physical states.

Education

In education, transition refers to the process of moving from one level of learning to another, like from elementary school to middle school.
Many educational systems implement transition programs to help students adapt, offering mentoring or integration activities.
Research shows that successful transitions in education can greatly impact a student’s academic performance and emotional well-being.

Psychology

Making transitions, whether in life or thought, can be challenging and may induce stress or anxiety.
Coping strategies, such as mindfulness and gradual exposure, can assist individuals in navigating major life changes effectively.
Understanding the psychological aspects of transition helps in developing better support systems during times of change.

Technology

In the tech world, 'transition' often refers to switching between different states or modes in software applications, improving user experience.
Web design incorporates transitions to enhance visuals, making movement between pages smoother and more engaging for users.
The adoption of new technologies often undergoes a transition phase in which both users and systems adapt to updated tools and platforms.

Art and Literature

Literary works often explore themes of transition—characters evolving from one state of being to another, showcasing personal growth.
In visual arts, transitions are portrayed through changes in color, style, and technique, creating dynamic expressions of nearby connected themes.
Film directors creatively use transitions to tell stories, shifting viewers from one scene to another through camera effects and editing.

Translations

Translations of the word "transition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transição

🇮🇳 संक्रमण

🇩🇪 Übergang

🇮🇩 transisi

🇺🇦 перехід

🇵🇱 przejście

🇯🇵 移行

🇫🇷 transition

🇪🇸 transición

🇹🇷 geçiş

🇰🇷 전환

🇸🇦 انتقال

🇨🇿 přechod

🇸🇰 prechod

🇨🇳 过渡

🇸🇮 prehod

🇮🇸 umskipti

🇰🇿 ауысу

🇬🇪 გადასვლა

🇦🇿 keçid

🇲🇽 transición

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,196, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2193 destroyed
2194 currently
2195 writers
2196 transition
2197 considering
2198 atmosphere
2199 earnings
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