verb B1 Intermediate

categorize

KA-tih-guh-ryz

Categorize (verb) means to sort or classify something into groups based on shared characteristics. Example: “The librarian categorized the new books by genre.”

verb

To sort or classify something into groups based on shared characteristics.

"The librarian categorized the new books by genre."

"It's hard to categorize his music — it blends so many styles."

How to Use Categorize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo put things into groups or categories based on what they have in common.

UK vs US

Both "categorize" and "categorise" are used in British English; American English uses "categorize" only.

Word Forms

categorized past tense, categorizes singular

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Fill the Gap

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The librarian _____ the new books by genre.

Etymology

From category plus the verb suffix -ize.

Rhymes for categorize

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize colonize memorize organize

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “categorize” mean?

The word “categorize” means to sort or classify something into groups based on shared characteristics. In plain terms, to put things into groups or categories based on what they have in common.

How do you pronounce “categorize”?

“Categorize” is pronounced KA-tih-guh-ryz (/ˈkætəɡəˌɹaɪz/ in IPA).

How do you use “categorize” in a sentence?

Here is “categorize” used in a sentence: “The librarian categorized the new books by genre.”

What part of speech is “categorize”?

“Categorize” is a verb.