realize
12 synonyms for realize, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To become fully aware of a fact or situation, especially one that was true all along.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use realize
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
realize a profit
realize a dream
suddenly realize
Etymology
From real plus -ize ("to make"), echoing French réaliser; real traces back through Old French and Latin rēs, "thing."
Full origin of realize →Frequently asked questions
What does “realize” mean?
The word “realize” means to become fully aware of a fact or situation, especially one that was true all along. In plain terms, to suddenly understand something, or to make something actually happen (including turning an investment into cash).
How do you pronounce “realize”?
“Realize” is pronounced REER-lyz (/ˈɹi(.ə)ˌlaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “realize” in a sentence?
Here is “realize” used in a sentence: “She didn't realize how late it was until the sun came up.”
What part of speech is “realize”?
“Realize” is a verb.
Where does the word “realize” come from?
The word “realize” comes from Latin. From real plus -ize ("to make"), echoing French réaliser; real traces back through Old French and Latin rēs, "thing.".
Is “realize” a common word?
“Realize” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “realize” have?
“Realize” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to become fully aware of a fact or situation, especially one that was true all along.
What is the difference between realize and understand?
Realize is the moment you become aware that something is true, often suddenly — 'I realized I'd left my keys.' Understand is grasping how or why something works, usually more gradual. You can understand a subject deeply over time, but you realize a fact in an instant of recognition.
What is the difference between realise and realize?
There is no difference in meaning — only in spelling. Realize is standard in American English and widely accepted elsewhere, while realise is common in British English. Both are pronounced the same and mean to become fully aware of something. Choose one spelling and use it consistently.
Does realize have other meanings?
Yes. Besides becoming aware of something, realize can mean to make something real or achieve it, as in 'she realized her dream of opening a shop.' In finance it can mean to turn assets into money, or to gain a profit. Context makes clear which sense is meant.
