1.
transformation, transfiguration, dramatic change in appearance
A striking change in outward appearance or visible character. Often used for places, people, or things that have changed so dramatically they are almost unrecognizable. Emphasizes the visual or external aspect of change.
街が変貌を遂げた。
The town underwent a transformation.
再開発で駅前が大きく変貌した。
The area in front of the station was dramatically transformed by redevelopment.
かつての静かな漁村は、観光地として変貌を遂げ、今では多くの旅行者で賑わっている。
The once-quiet fishing village has transformed into a tourist destination and is now bustling with travelers.
USAGE:
変貌 focuses on visible, outward change — how something looks or appears. It is commonly paired with を遂げる (to accomplish/undergo) in the set phrase 変貌を遂げる. Compared to 変容 (qualitative, deep transformation) and 変化 (general change), 変貌 emphasizes the dramatic visual difference.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 変貌を遂げる: to undergo a transformation
- 大きく変貌する: to be dramatically transformed
- 街の変貌: transformation of a town
- 著しい変貌: remarkable transformation