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Polymorph 5e

Level 4 Transmutation

Polymorph is a level 4 transmutation spell in D&D 5e. Casting time: 1 action, range: 60 feet, duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour. Available to Bard, Druid, Sorcerer, Wizard.

Casting Time

1 action

Range

60 feet

Duration

Concentration, up to 1 hour

Components

V, S, M (a caterpillar cocoon)

Transmutation Level 4

This spell transforms a creature that you can see within range into a new form. An unwilling creature must make a Wisdom saving throw to avoid the effect. The spell has no effect on a shapechanger or a creature with 0 hit points.

The transformation lasts for the duration, or until the target drops to 0 hit points or dies. The new form can be any beast whose challenge rating is equal to or less than the target's (or the target's level, if it doesn't have a challenge rating). The target's game statistics, including mental ability scores, are replaced by the statistics of the chosen beast. It retains its alignment and personality.

The target assumes the hit points of its new form. When it reverts to its normal form, the creature returns to the number of hit points it had before it transformed. If it reverts as a result of dropping to 0 hit points, any excess damage carries over to its normal form. As long as the excess damage doesn't reduce the creature's normal form to 0 hit points, it isn't knocked unconscious.

The creature is limited in the actions it can perform by the nature of its new form, and it can't speak, cast spells, or take any other action that requires hands or speech.

The target's gear melds into the new form. The creature can't activate, use, wield, or otherwise benefit from any of its equipment.

Material Components a caterpillar cocoon
Classes Bard, Druid, Sorcerer, Wizard

Spellcasting & Tactical Insights

Action Economy

Standard Action • Primary turn investment.

Concentration

Requires Concentration (taking damage triggers DC 10 / half-damage Con saves).

School Role

Transmutation: Alters properties of physical matter or creatures. Provides flexible buffs, environmental reshaping, and mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What level spell is Polymorph and what school does it belong to?

Polymorph is a Level 4 spell belonging to the school of Transmutation in D&D 5e.

What are the casting time, range, and duration of Polymorph?

Polymorph has a casting time of 1 action, range of 60 feet, and duration of Concentration, up to 1 hour.

Does Polymorph require concentration or ritual casting?

Yes, Polymorph requires Concentration. It cannot be cast as a ritual.

Use Polymorph in your campaign

Dungeon Manager lets you add Polymorph to your characters, reference it during sessions, and track spell slots across encounters — all free.