Transparent: meaning, definitions and examples

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transparent

[trænsˈpærənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

invisibility

allowing light to pass through so that objects behind can be distinctly seen

Synonyms

clear, crystal clear, see-through.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transparent	Commonly used to describe materials or situations where something is easily seen through or understood. It can refer to physical transparency or to clarity in communication and honesty. The glass was so transparent, I could see right through it. We need to be transparent about our company's policies.
clear	Generally used to describe something that is free of obstacles, easy to understand, or obvious. It can refer to the physical clarity of a substance or the comprehensibility of information. The water in the lake is so clear, you can see the fish swimming. She gave clear instructions on how to assemble the furniture.
see-through	Typically used to describe materials that one can see through, like fabrics or barriers. It is mostly used in a physical context and can have a slightly more informal or casual tone. She wore a see-through dress that caught everyone's attention. The partitions in the office are see-through to let more light in.
crystal clear	Often used for emphasis to describe something that is exceptionally clear or easy to understand. It can refer to physical clarity or to making a point or instruction extremely understandable. This term has a positive connotation. The weather forecast is crystal clear: it's going to be sunny all day. Her explanation was crystal clear, leaving no room for doubt.

Examples of usage

The glass is transparent, allowing us to see through it clearly.
His transparent excuses didn't fool anyone.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

honesty

open, honest, and not hiding anything

Synonyms

honest, open, sincere.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transparent	Used to describe something that is clear and easy to understand, especially regarding processes or intentions. The company's financial records are transparent, making it easy for stakeholders to see where the funds are going. She had a transparent agenda; it was obvious she wanted the promotion.
honest	Refers to someone who always tells the truth and does not cheat or steal. John is known for being honest; he will tell you exactly what he thinks. It's important to be honest on your resume.
open	Typically describes a person who is willing to share their thoughts and feelings freely or a system that allows for easy access and participation. She is very open about her experiences travelling internationally. The forum is an open platform where everyone can voice their opinions.
sincere	Used to define a person who genuinely means what they say, without any attempt at deceit. He offered her a sincere apology for his mistake. Her compliments always feel sincere, never forced.

Examples of usage

She appreciated his transparent communication style.
The company aims to be transparent about its business practices.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'transparens,' meaning 'to show through.'
It was first used in English around the 14th century, describing clear materials.

Art and Design

Artists often use layers of transparent paint to create depth and luminosity in their work.
In design, transparency can symbolize openness and honesty, helping build trust with an audience.

Science

Light travels through transparent materials without being scattered, which is why we can see through them.
Water is a common transparent substance when it’s clean, allowing light to pass through and support aquatic life.

Psychology

Being transparent in communication fosters trust and reduces misunderstandings in relationships.
Studies suggest that transparent organizations are often perceived as more ethical by their employees.

Technology

In tech, transparent interfaces allow users to see relevant information clearly without distraction.
Data transparency is becoming essential for companies, as customers seek clarity on how their information is used.

Translations

Translations of the word "transparent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transparente

🇮🇳 पारदर्शी

🇩🇪 transparent

🇮🇩 transparan

🇺🇦 прозорий

🇵🇱 przezroczysty

🇯🇵 透明な (とうめいな)

🇫🇷 transparent

🇪🇸 transparente

🇹🇷 şeffaf

🇰🇷 투명한 (tumyeonghan)

🇸🇦 شفاف (shaffaf)

🇨🇿 průhledný

🇸🇰 priehľadný

🇨🇳 透明 (tòumíng)

🇸🇮 prosojen

🇮🇸 gegnsær

🇰🇿 мөлдір

🇬🇪 გამჭვირვალე (gamch’virvale)

🇦🇿 şəffaf

🇲🇽 transparente

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,738 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
5735 consulted
5736 folded
5737 bounded
5738 transparent
5739 consequent
5740 concealed
5741 summit
...