English Reference
Adjective

transformational

adj.
C1 Advanced US /ˌtɹænsfɝˈmeɪʃənəɫ/ UK /tɹænsfɔːmˈeɪʃənəl/ trans·for·ma·tion·al

adj.describing a change that is very large and important. It can also describe something that makes a big change happen in a person or a situation.

adj.relating to or causing a fundamental change in form, nature, or character. Often used to describe processes or tools that lead to significant, qualitative shifts in a system or individual.


SIMPLE

The new software is a transformational tool for our business.

CONTEXTUAL

The company's shift to remote work was a transformational change that improved employee satisfaction and reduced overhead costs.

COMPLEX

While the initial results were modest, the long-term impact of the policy proved to be transformational, fundamentally altering the social fabric of the community over several decades.

That the humble summer break can be a transformational timeout, with September’s child only distantly related to July’s.

The Guardian· 20 Aug 2026

Adaptation efforts begun now form the foundation for efforts to come, but they must become transformational and responsive to evolving nonlinear and abruptly arising risks—including those that will harm mitigation efforts.

Phys.org· 2 Sept 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated