Words / C2

tranz-MYOOT/trænzˈmjuːt/

To transmute is to change something into a different form or kind (formal / literary): transmute grief into work, transmute lead into gold — the old alchemical dream. Change and transform (already in the dictionary) are everyday and wider. Convert is of function or faith. Do not pretend a slogan transmutes an empty cell into an n.

Meaning

To change something into a different form or substance (formal / literary).

Examples

• “A slogan does not transmute an empty cell into an n.”
• “Change is everyday. Transform is close (already in the dictionary). Convert is of use or belief. Alchemy is the myth. A rewrite can move a draft into a paper. A brand line that leaves the cell blank is still blank. Fill the number; metamorphosis is not a method.”

Good to know

Transform (especially in kind). Everyday: change / transform (already in this dictionary). A slogan is not alchemy.

Near in meaning

transform

New