Basic Details
Word: Transformation
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A complete change in the form, look or nature of someone or something, usually for the better.
Synonyms: change, conversion, makeover
Word origin: From Latin transformare, to change in shape.
How to Spell Transformation
Syllables: trans - for - ma - tion
Tricky part: In speech the for sounds like fer, so students write transfermation. The s of trans is also sometimes lost.
Watch out for: transfermation, tranformation, transformasion
Memory tip: Trans + form + ation. Something takes on a new form, so the word must keep the full word form in the middle.
Usage Examples
Example 1: The transformation of the empty plot into a vegetable garden took the whole term.
Example 2: Watching a tadpole's transformation into a frog was our favourite science project.
Example 3: After the paint job, the old bus stop's transformation surprised everyone in the lane.
Fun Fact
Some substances can change form without changing what they are made of: graphite in a pencil and diamond are both pure carbon.
Practise the CREST Way
Word Cookie
Insert the correct letters to complete the word:
transf_rm_tion
a) e, a
b) o, a
c) a, a
d) o, e
Show answer
b) o, a. The middle is the ordinary word form, and the ending is -ation as in information.
Word Connection
Choose the synonym of the word transformation as used in the sentence:
The old warehouse's transformation into a bright public library took two years.
a) delay
b) conversion
c) neglect
d) destruction
Show answer
b) conversion. Turning a warehouse into a library is a conversion; destruction and neglect would leave it worse.
Mingle-Mangle
Unjumble the letters to find the word that fits the sentence:
The caterpillar's mtsroaanfnoirt inside the chrysalis amazed the children.
a) transformation
b) transplantation
c) transportation
d) transmission
Show answer
a) transformation. The jumble has an f and an m but no p, and only one s, so transformation is the only fit.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which change is a transformation?
a) a chair standing in a corner
b) ice turning into water
c) a book resting on a shelf
d) a bag hanging on a hook
Show answer
b) ice turning into water
2. The transformation of a sleepy fishing village into a busy port means the village ____.
a) stayed just as it always was
b) lost its name on every map
c) moved to another stretch of coast
d) changed completely in look and life
Show answer
d) changed completely in look and life
