# transform

/ˈtɹænsfɔɹm/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/transform
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. to change nature or function

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to change the way something works or what it is used for.

For teachers: to change the nature, condition, or function of an entity; to convert one thing into another.

- The factory was transformed into a modern art gallery.
- Digital technology has transformed the way we consume media, shifting the power from traditional broadcasters to individual content creators.

### 3. mathematical operation

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a rule or process that changes one mathematical form into another.

For teachers: a mathematical operation or function that converts one function or expression into another form.

- The teacher explained how to use a Fourier transform to solve the problem.
- Applying the Laplace transform allows engineers to convert complex differential equations into simpler algebraic forms for easier analysis.

### 4. geological fault

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a type of break in the Earth's surface where plates slide past each other.

For teachers: a type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past one another horizontally.

- The San Andreas Fault is a famous example of a transform boundary.
- The seismic activity in the region is primarily driven by the movement along a major transform fault separating the two oceanic plates.

## Examples

- The new paint will transform the dark room into a bright space.
- The city plans to transform the old industrial waterfront into a public park with walking trails and gardens.
- Digital technologies continue to transform the way we communicate, effectively dissolving geographical barriers that once dictated the pace of global commerce and personal interaction.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.