Definition

1. Noun:
   • A complete or major change in form, nature, or appearance: The process or result of changing into a different form.
   • (Genetics) The modification of a cell by the uptake and incorporation of genetic material from its surroundings.
   • (Linguistics) A rule that converts one syntactic structure into another.
   • (Mathematics) A function that changes the position or direction of the axes of a coordinate system.
   • A qualitative change in state or condition.

Examples of Usage

• General Change:
  • The city underwent a remarkable transformation from a small town into a major metropolis.
  • Caterpillars undergo a transformation to become butterflies.
• Genetics:
  • The experiment involved the transformation of bacterial cells with a plasmid containing the gene.
• Linguistics:
  • The passive voice is derived from the active voice by a syntactic transformation.
• Mathematics:
  • Graphing the equation required a coordinate transformation.

Advanced Usage

• "To undergo a transformation": to experience a complete change.
  • The old warehouse has undergone a transformation into a modern art gallery.
• "Digital transformation": the integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how it operates.
  • The company's digital transformation improved efficiency and customer service.

Variants and Related Words

• Transform (verb): to change in form, appearance, or structure.
  • Renovations will transform the building.
• Transformer (noun): a device that changes the voltage of an electric current; or, a person or thing that transforms something.
  • An electrical transformer. / She was a transformer of public opinion.
• Transformative (adjective): causing a marked change in someone or something.
  • The experience had a transformative effect on his outlook.

Synonyms

• Metamorphosis: A change of physical form, structure, or substance.
• Conversion: The process of changing or causing something to change from one form to another.
• Transmutation: The action of changing or the state of being changed into another form.

Related Phrases

• Transformation process: The series of actions or steps taken to achieve a transformation.
  • The transformation process took several years to complete.
• Radical transformation: A fundamental and thorough change.
  • The industry is facing a radical transformation due to new technology.

Related Idioms

• A transformation for the better: A change that results in improvement.
  • His new diet and exercise routine led to a transformation for the better.
• To be in the midst of a transformation: To be currently undergoing a significant change.
  • The organization is in the midst of a transformation to a more agile structure.

Noun

1. the act of changing in form or shape or appearance
   • a photograph is a translation of a scene onto a two-dimensional surface
2. (genetics) modification of a cell or bacterium by the uptake and incorporation of exogenous DNA
3. a rule describing the conversion of one syntactic structure into another related syntactic structure
4. (mathematics) a function that changes the position or direction of the axes of a coordinate system
5. a qualitative change