Transfigure vs. Transmute — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 9, 2024
To transfigure is to change outward appearance or form dramatically, implying a transformation into something more beautiful or elevated, while to transmute is to alter something’s nature or substance entirely, implying a change from one form another.
Difference Between Transfigure and Transmute
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Transfigure refers to a profound change in appearance or form, often implying a spiritual or extraordinary transformation. Transmute, on the other hand, denotes a change in the fundamental nature of something, usually involving a transformation from one material or state to another.
Transfigure has spiritual or literary connotations, often implying a higher or exalted change, such as in religious contexts where divine transformation is depicted. Transmute is rooted in alchemical or scientific terminology, where one material substance changes into another.
Transfigure is often used metaphorically to describe an uplifting or inspiring transformation in individuals or objects. Transmute is frequently applied in discussions of chemistry, alchemy, or metaphorically for changing emotions or abstract concepts.
Transfigure implies a noticeable change in the external form, whereas transmute emphasizes the internal transformation of the nature or state of something, even if the appearance remains similar.
Transfigure conveys an elevation of form or being, often idealistic or artistic. Transmute usually involves practical or material changes that can affect an object's composition or utility.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Change form or appearance dramatically
Change in fundamental nature
Context
Spiritual, artistic, literary
Scientific, alchemical, emotional
Connotation
Uplifting, elevated
Practical, fundamental
Use
Metaphorically or literally
More literal but can be metaphorical
Implication
Elevation or idealization
Change in substance or material
Compare with Definitions
Transfigure
To change appearance, often to something more beautiful or exalted.
The rising sun transfigured the morning sky into a tapestry of colors.
Transmute
To convert one material or state into another.
The heat transmuted the ice into water.
Transfigure
To elevate or transform spiritually.
The artist's work transfigured simple objects into symbols of hope.
Transmute
To undergo a transformation in substance.
The idea eventually transmuted into a viable plan.
Transfigure
To change completely in form or nature.
The novel transfigures mundane events into epic adventures.
Transmute
To change state from one form to another.
The experience transmuted his sorrow into joy.
Transfigure
To alter outwardly in a striking way.
The makeup artist transfigured her look into that of a movie star.
Transmute
To alter the character or appearance significantly.
Over time, she transmuted her anger into creativity.
Transfigure
To make glorious or magnificent.
The forest seemed transfigured by the glistening snow.
Transmute
To change in form, nature, or substance.
The alchemist tried to transmute lead into gold.
Transfigure
To change the form or appearance of; transform.
Transmute
To change from one form, nature, substance, or state into another; transform
Alchemists tried to transmute lead into gold.
Transfigure
To exalt or glorify.
Transmute
To undergo transmutation.
Transfigure
(transitive) To transform the outward appearance of; to convert into a different form, state or substance.
Transmute
(ambitransitive) To change, transform or convert one thing to another, or from one state or form to another.
The alchemists tried to transmute base metals to gold.
Did the base metals transmute to gold?
Transfigure
(transitive) To glorify or exalt.
Transmute
To change from one nature, form, or substance, into another; to transform.
The caresses of parents and the blandishments of friends transmute us into idols.
Transmuting sorrow into golden joyFree from alloy.
Transfigure
To change the outward form or appearance of; to metamorphose; to transform.
Transmute
Alter the nature of (elements)
Transfigure
Especially, to change to something exalted and glorious; to give an ideal form to.
[Jesus] was transfigured before them; and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.
Transmute
Change in outward structure or looks;
He transformed into a monster
The salesman metamorphosed into an ugly beetle
Transfigure
Elevate or idealize, in allusion to Christ's transfiguration
Transmute
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
Transfigure
Change completely the nature or appearance of;
In Kafka's story, a person metamorphoses into a bug
The treatment and diet transfigured her into a beautiful young woman
Jesus was transfigured after his resurrection
Common Curiosities
Are transfigure and transmute synonyms?
They both mean to transform, but transfigure usually refers to a change in appearance, while transmute involves a change in nature or substance.
Does transmute imply a scientific process?
It can, especially in historical alchemical contexts, but it is also used metaphorically.
What is an example of transmuting a substance?
Transmuting can refer to changing lead into gold in alchemy or converting water into steam.
Do transfigure and transmute always involve physical changes?
No, both terms are also used metaphorically for emotional or psychological transformations.
Is transfigure always positive?
Transfigure generally carries a positive connotation, implying elevation or idealization.
Can people be transfigured or transmuted?
Yes, people can be transfigured in appearance or spirit, or they can transmute emotions or behaviors.
Can emotions be transfigured or transmuted?
Emotions are often transmuted (e.g., anger into acceptance) or transfigured (e.g., grief into a source of strength).
Does transfigure imply a permanent change?
Not necessarily; it could be temporary, such as a temporary beautification.
Is transmute commonly used in literature?
Yes, it is used metaphorically to describe changing emotional states or abstract ideas.
Is transfigure a physical transformation?
Not necessarily. It can also represent a metaphorical or spiritual change.
Is transmute more applicable to scientific changes?
Historically, it was used in alchemy but is now relevant to chemistry and physics.
Is transfigure rooted in religious contexts?
The term is sometimes used in religious contexts, particularly in describing divine transformation.
Are both terms still relevant in modern usage?
Yes, both terms remain relevant in literature, science, and everyday language.
Can objects be transfigured?
Yes, objects can be transfigured, especially when artists reshape them to inspire a different perception.
Can thoughts be transfigured?
Thoughts can be transfigured by shifting perspectives or by creative expression.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
