transmute

/trænz'mju:t/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "transmute" in a way that's easy to understand.

Definition:

Transmute (verb) means to change something into a different form, appearance, or nature. It's often used when talking about changing one kind of substance or element into another.

Usage Instructions:

• Transmute is typically used in more formal or scientific contexts. You can use it when talking about physical changes (like changing clay into a sculpture) or metaphorical changes (like someone changing their personality or outlook on life).

Examples:

• Physical Change: "The artist can transmute the clay into a beautiful sculpture."
• Metaphorical Change: "After traveling, she felt that her experiences had transmuted her understanding of the world."

Advanced Usage:

In literature or philosophy, "transmute" can refer to deep personal or spiritual changes, such as a significant transformation in a person's character or beliefs.

Word Variants:

• Transmutation (noun): The process of changing from one form or state to another. Example: "The transmutation of lead into gold was a goal of ancient alchemists."
• Transmutative (adjective): Relating to the act of changing something into a different form. Example: "The transmutative power of love can change people's lives."

Different Meanings:

While "transmute" primarily refers to changing form, it can also imply a more abstract change, such as transforming emotions or thoughts.

Synonyms:

• Change
• Transform
• Alter
• Convert
• Metamorphose

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "transmute," you might hear phrases like "transform into" or "change into" that convey similar meanings.

Summary:

"Transmute" is a powerful word that captures the idea of significant transformation, whether it's physical, emotional, or metaphorical. Remember that it's used in more formal contexts, so you might hear it more in literature, science, or philosophical discussions.

Academic

Verb

1. alter the nature of (elements)
2. change or alter in form, appearance, or nature
   • This experience transformed her completely
   • She transformed the clay into a beautiful sculpture
   • transubstantiate one element into another
3. change in outward structure or looks
   • He transformed into a monster
   • The salesman metamorphosed into an ugly beetle

Synonyms

• transform
• transubstantiate
• metamorphose