come to realize

USAGE SUMMARY

"come to realize" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when talking about understanding something or coming to terms with something after a period of time. Example sentence: After much introspection, I have come to realize that my career path isn't right for me.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's what I've come to realize".

The New York Times

And maybe, I've come to realize, that's exactly the point.

The New York Times

That, I've come to realize, was her protective screen.

The New Yorker

"We've all come to realize it's going to take time.

The New York Times

It didn't have to be Princeton, he'd come to realize.

The New York Times - Magazine

Small meant large, as readers have come to realize.

The New York Times - Books

Talk like that, she has come to realize, is cheap.

The New York Times

But he does come to realize that escapism is futile.

The New York Times - Books

But I have come to realize that, compared to my wife, I had the easier job.

The New York Times

"But they've come to realize that compromise is getting awfully hard to accomplish.

The New York Times

On the other hand, I've also come to realize how much less important all this is.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "come to realize" when a more direct verb like "understand" or "recognize" would be clearer and more concise.

Common error

While "come to realize" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "understand", "recognize", or "become aware".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "come to realize" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of gradual understanding or awareness. It's often used to describe a shift in perspective or a new comprehension of something previously not fully understood. As Ludwig AI explains, it is indeed a correct expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "come to realize" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies a gradual development of understanding, commonly found across diverse reputable sources. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is indeed correct and serves to depict personal growth in comprehension. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts, it's advisable to balance its use with synonyms to maintain a dynamic and impactful writing style. Consider that its frequency is high in "News & Media", "Science" and "Formal & Business" contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

come to understand

A direct synonym, focusing on the achievement of comprehension.

become aware of

A broader term that encompasses any form of gaining knowledge or consciousness.

recognize

A more concise term that indicates acknowledgement or awareness of something.

begin to understand

Focuses on the initial stage of understanding, suggesting a gradual process.

start to grasp

Emphasizes the act of seizing or comprehending something, often after some difficulty.

perceive

Suggests becoming aware of something through the senses or intuition.

grow to appreciate

Highlights a developing sense of value or admiration over time.

gain insight into

Focuses on acquiring a deeper, more profound understanding.

awaken to

Implies a sudden or transformative realization.

see the truth of

Emphasizes discovering the factual or valid nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "come to realize" in a sentence?

You can use "come to realize" to express a gradual understanding. For example, "I've "come to realize" the importance of patience" or "She "came to realize" that her initial assumptions were incorrect".

What's the difference between "come to realize" and "realize"?

"Realize" implies a more immediate understanding, while "come to realize" suggests a gradual process of understanding over time. For instance, you might "realize" something suddenly, but you "come to realize" something after a period of reflection or experience.

What can I say instead of "come to realize"?

You can use alternatives like "begin to understand", "become aware of", or "start to grasp" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "coming to realize"?

Yes, "coming to realize" is a valid gerund form, often used to describe an ongoing process of understanding. For instance, "I am "coming to realize" the complexity of this project".