Tranquil: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS

The word ‘tranquil’ evokes calmness, stillness, and a sense of peace that many of us crave in our fast-moving world. As a result, if you are preparing for IELTS, it is a high-value vocabulary item and adding it to your IELTS Vocabulary Words List for Band 8 or 9 will bring emotional depth and clarity to your speaking and writing responses. 

In this blog post, we will examine the meaning, origin, history, synonyms, and antonyms of the word, as well as its proper usage of the term ‘tranquil’ within the context of IELTS, reinforcing our understanding through practical exercises.

Meaning of Tranquil

• Pronunciation: træŋkwɪl (sounds like trang·kvl)

The word ‘tranquil’, according to Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, means ‘calm and peaceful, without noise, violence, worry, etc’. Whether you are describing a peaceful place, a relaxed moment, or a calm environment, ‘tranquil’ elevates your expression above basic words like ‘calm’, ‘quiet’, or ‘peaceful’.

History and Origin of ‘Tranquil’

‘Tranquil’ originates from the Latin word ‘tranquillus’, meaning ‘calm’, ‘quiet’, or ‘still’, entering English through Old French (‘tranquille’) into Middle English around the 14th-15th centuries, evolving to describe peacefulness in nature and the mind, with deep roots in philosophies seeking inner calm like Stoicism and Buddhism. 

It has travelled through languages and centuries before becoming the refined English adjective we use today. So, understanding its roots will help you appreciate its depth and use it more confidently. 

Usage & Examples of Tranquil

Let us look at some example sentences where the word ‘tranquil’ has been used in its adjective form.

• “Look at Alex she looks so tranquil and happy.”
• Decisions taken from a tranquil mind are always victorious.
• This place is so tranquil that I can spend my entire life here peacefully.
• Max seems less tranquil today as compared to other days.
• My yoga teacher helped me reach a tranquil state.
• The garden offered a tranquil place to relax after a stressful day.
• We stayed at a tranquil beach resort far away from the city crowds.
• Meditation helps create a tranquil state of mind.
• The museum had a tranquil atmosphere that encouraged quiet reflection.

Using ‘Tranquil’ as Different Parts of Speech

Although ‘tranquil’ is an adjective, it can also be used in noun and verb forms. So, given below are some sentences using the word in different forms.

IELTS Usage of ‘Tranquil’

Since you are preparing for the IELTS exam, learning how to use the word ‘tranquil’ in different contexts is part of understanding the word. So, given below are some sample Q&A using the word in various contexts.

IELTS Speaking Part 1

• Question: Do you like spending time in peaceful places?
• Sample Answer: “Yes, I really enjoy tranquil spaces because they allow me to unwind mentally. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I visit a quiet park near my house. The peaceful surroundings help me regain my balance and clarity.”

IELTS Writing Task 2

• Topic: Some people prefer living in busy cities, while others choose quiet places in the countryside. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Answer Excerpt: Many individuals prefer urban areas due to better job opportunities and advanced facilities. However, others find tranquil regions more appealing because they offer cleaner air and a slower, healthier lifestyle. In my opinion, tranquil places provide a better quality of life as they reduce stress and allow people to enjoy nature.

Synonyms and Antonyms of ‘Tranquil’

The table below provides a list of synonyms and antonyms of ‘tranquil’, complete with their meanings and example sentences.

Exercise to Master the Meaning of ‘Tranquil’

In order to enhance your comprehension of the word 'tranquil', we will now work through the exercise that is provided below.

1The mountain village remained tranquil despite the political unrest spreading across the region.” - What can MOST logically be inferred?

A The village was unaware of the events.

B The village maintained calm while chaos spread elsewhere.

C The village supported the political unrest.

D The village became loud and disruptive.

2 Tranquil: serenity is most similar to:

A Hectic: calm

B Vibrant: monotony

C Chaotic: disorder

D Tedious: excitement

3 Which sentence incorrectly uses ‘tranquil’?

A The tranquil atmosphere of the spa helped visitors relax instantly.

B The garden felt tranquil after the rain softened all surrounding sounds.

C The painter captured the tranquil beauty of the countryside.

D The tranquil negotiations abruptly collapsed into heated arguments.

4 Which word is the most contextually accurate synonym for ‘tranquil’ in a literary description?

ABoisterous

B Placid

C Erratic

D Novel

5 Her mind, usually filled with racing thoughts, felt unexpectedly tranquil as she watched the waves retreat across the shore.” - Which statement BEST reflects the meaning here?

A She felt bored and detached.

B Her thoughts became calm and untroubled.

C She was overwhelmed by fear.

D The waves confused her emotions.

Answer Keys

To conclude, the word ‘tranquil’ is more than just a synonym for peaceful; it is a versatile and sophisticated word perfect for IELTS success. So, it is important to start using it properly when practicing with free IELTS practice tests, because it is a word that improves your capacity to express your thoughts and assists you in using it confidently and accurately.

Useful Links:

• Enchantment: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Endurance: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Elated - Word of the Day for IELTS Speaking and Writing
• Panic - Word of the Day for IELTS Speaking & Writing
• Useful Resources & Websites for IELTS Vocabulary