Is tranquil more formal than calm?

Yes. Tranquil sounds a little more formal and descriptive than calm.

Can I use tranquil for a person?

Yes, but it is less common. It usually describes a place, scene, or mood.

What is the difference between tranquil and peaceful?

Peaceful often suggests comfort or absence of conflict. Tranquil stresses quietness and stillness.

← Dictionary

tranquil

/ˈtræŋ.kwɪl/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Quiet and peaceful. A tranquil place has little noise, worry, or activity.

The lake looked tranquil at sunrise.
She enjoyed the tranquil evening.
We found a tranquil spot in the park.

Adinary Nuance

Tranquil is close to calm, peaceful, and serene, but it usually describes a place, scene, or moment. It sounds a little more formal than calm and a little less emotional than peaceful. Writers often choose tranquil for a quiet atmosphere, especially in nature or travel writing.

In other languages

Vietnamese: yên bình
Spanish: tranquilo
Chinese: 宁静
Japanese: 静かな
Korean: 고요한

Etymology

Tranquil comes from Latin tranquillus, meaning 'calm' or 'quiet'. It entered English in the late Middle Ages through French.

Common phrases

tranquil waterstranquil atmospheretranquil settingtranquil life

Synonyms

calm peaceful serene quiet

Related words

tranquility stillness peace relaxed

Frequently asked questions

Is tranquil more formal than calm?: Yes. Tranquil sounds a little more formal and descriptive than calm.
Can I use tranquil for a person?: Yes, but it is less common. It usually describes a place, scene, or mood.
What is the difference between tranquil and peaceful?: Peaceful often suggests comfort or absence of conflict. Tranquil stresses quietness and stillness.