transmute: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low to MediumFormal, Literary
Quick answer
What does “transmute” mean?
To change in form, nature, or substance, especially from a base or lower state to a higher or different one.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To change in form, nature, or substance, especially from a base or lower state to a higher or different one.
Often used in alchemy, science, or metaphorically to describe profound, fundamental transformations, such as converting elements or evolving ideas.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; minor variation in pronunciation, with British English often voicing the 's' sound.
Connotations
Similar connotations of transformation, often with mystical, scientific, or profound overtones in both dialects.
Frequency
Slightly more common in British English in literary contexts, but overall frequency is low and comparable in academic or technical use.
Grammar
How to Use “transmute” in a Sentence
transmute something into somethingtransmute from something to somethingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transmute” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The ancient alchemist sought to transmute lead into gold.
- Her sorrow was transmuted into powerful poetry.
American English
- Modern science can transmute elements in nuclear reactors.
- He aimed to transmute his challenges into opportunities for growth.
adverb
British English
- The change occurred almost transmutably, though this form is rare.
- He described the process transmutably in his notes.
American English
- The data was transmutably analyzed to reveal new insights.
- She approached the problem transmutably, seeking fundamental solutions.
adjective
British English
- The transmuted substance exhibited unique characteristics.
- A transmuted version of the tale emerged in later editions.
American English
- The transmuted materials were crucial for the experiment.
- Her transmuted outlook influenced her decisions.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; may appear metaphorically in discussions of corporate transformation or innovation strategies.
Academic
Common in literature, history of science, philosophy, and fields discussing alchemy or fundamental changes.
Everyday
Uncommon; typically reserved for formal speech, writing, or artistic expressions.
Technical
Used in physics, chemistry, and engineering to describe particle transformations, energy conversion, or material changes.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “transmute”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transmute”
- Using 'transmute' as a noun (e.g., 'a transmute' instead of 'a transmutation')
- Misspelling as 'transmute' with extra letters like 'transmutee'.
- Overusing in informal contexts where 'change' or 'transform' would suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is relatively rare and mostly used in formal, literary, academic, or technical contexts.
While similar, 'transmute' often implies a more profound or complete change, especially in nature or substance, and has specific historical connotations from alchemy.
It is primarily a verb. The noun form is 'transmutation', and adjectival forms like 'transmuted' are derived from the verb.
Yes, 'transmute lead into gold' is a classic idiom from alchemy, often used metaphorically to describe turning something worthless into something valuable.
To change in form, nature, or substance, especially from a base or lower state to a higher or different one.
Transmute is usually formal, literary in register.
Transmute: in British English it is pronounced /trænzˈmjuːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /trænsˈmjuːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “transmute lead into gold”
- “transmute base into noble”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'trans-' meaning across and 'mute' from Latin 'mutare' to change, so changing something across forms or states.
Conceptual Metaphor
Transformation as alchemical process; change as evolution, purification, or elevation.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'transmute'?