What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
metamorphose
Example
The caterpillar metamorphoses into a butterfly. [metamorphoses: verb]
Example
The company underwent a metamorphosis after the merger. [metamorphosis: noun]
transfigure
Example
The sunset transfigured the landscape into a breathtaking scene. [transfigured: verb]
Example
Her smile transfigured her face into one of joy. [transfigured: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Transfigure is less common than metamorphose in everyday language. Metamorphose is often used in scientific or technical contexts, while transfigure is more commonly used in literary or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between metamorphose and transfigure?
Both metamorphose and transfigure have a formal tone due to their technical or literary connotations. However, metamorphose may be considered more formal due to its association with scientific terminology.