Realize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Realize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the act of becoming aware of something or understanding it clearly. Example: "I didn't realize how much time had passed while I was working on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If you want to connect with people on Facebook and prominent social networks, you have to realize the world is moving toward transparency.

The Guardian

Blais added: "The important thing is to realize that this has nothing to do with ethnic, political considerations, at least at this point".

The Guardian

It makes sense that the people being discriminated against are quicker to realize they need to challenge that system then those who are not.

The Guardian

Washington DC is already so fractious and petty that if politicians realize they're all part of the big family, that couldn't make things any worse, right?

The Guardian - Opinion

A single gunshot wound to the chest meant Martin would never realize his college dreams.

The Guardian

"People need to feel that fear to realize just how much these conversations have been repressed by employers".

The Guardian

As it happens, even the Koch brothers have begun to realize that their attempts to stop the ACA are getting them nowhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then, too, they need to realize that what is on offer are teaser rates that won't last past the lifespan of the six, 12 or 24 months of the initial contract, what is available then may not correspond to their needs.

The Guardian - Money

Most of them, though, seem to realize that just running against the Obama administration's record won't be enough to score the sound victory they want out of November's midterm elections.

The Guardian

Third, realize that we're in an era of increased transparency.

The Guardian

Erik and I have often discussed that, in this case climate change a lot of people, folks like Nick Minchin included don't seem to realize what is at stake.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "realize", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean to become aware of something or to bring something into existence.

Common error

Avoid using "realize" when you mean "idealize". "Realize" means to become aware or to make something real, while "idealize" means to regard something as perfect or better than it is.

Linguistic Context

Realize" primarily functions as a verb. It indicates either the act of becoming aware of something previously unknown or the action of making something concrete or actual. Examples from Ludwig illustrate both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Realize" is a versatile verb commonly used to express becoming aware of something or bringing something into existence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and business. While primarily functioning as a verb, its specific meaning shifts depending on the context—from conveying understanding to highlighting the achievement of a goal. It's essential to distinguish "realize" from similar-sounding words like "idealize" to avoid confusion. When using "realize", consider whether you intend to convey awareness or the act of making something real. Alternative phrases like "become aware", "understand", and "recognize" can be employed to add nuance or specificity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Become aware

Focuses specifically on the moment of gaining consciousness or knowledge of something.

Understand

Emphasizes comprehension and grasping the meaning of something.

Recognize

Highlights the act of identifying or acknowledging something previously known or unknown.

Comprehend

Suggests a more thorough and complete understanding of a subject.

Grasp

Implies seizing or capturing an understanding, often suddenly.

Apprehend

Formal term for understanding, often implying a deeper level of insight.

Figure out

Suggests a process of reasoning or problem-solving to reach an understanding.

Fathom

Implies a struggle to understand something complex or mysterious.

Ascertain

Focuses on discovering something with certainty, often through investigation.

Discern

Highlights the ability to perceive or distinguish subtle differences.

FAQs

How to use "Realize" in a sentence?

"Realize" can be used to express becoming aware of something, like "I didn't realize how late it was", or to express making something a reality, as in "She worked hard to realize her dreams".

What can I say instead of "Realize"?

You can use alternatives like "become aware", "understand", or "recognize" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "Realize" or "Realise"?

"Realize" is the standard spelling in American English, while "Realise" is the standard spelling in British English. Both are correct, depending on the region.

What's the difference between "Realize" and "Recognize"?

"Realize" implies a new understanding or awareness, while "recognize" suggests identifying something already known or previously encountered. For example, you might "realize" you forgot your keys, or "recognize" a friend in a crowd.