coming to realize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "coming to realize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of gradually understanding or becoming aware of something. Example: "After months of reflection, I am finally coming to realize the importance of self-care in my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

' And I think he was coming to realize that all of that that might not happen".

The New York Times

It is the difference between being told something and coming to realize it yourself.

The New York Times

"I think we're coming to realize that we definitely are not working hard enough.

The New York Times - Sports

"More and more people are coming to realize that they can choose their history.

The New York Times

Fans are immediately transfixed by the performance, only later coming to realize that her voice is pitch perfect.

The New York Times

Americans are coming to realize that their cherished narrative of social and economic mobility is a myth.

The New York Times

Her head, she's coming to realize, is on his shoulder, like you'd do with a boyfriend or something.

The New Yorker

Obama told Axelrod and Favreau that he was coming to realize what a "big deal this is".

The New Yorker

I wrote a poem about coming to realize that I'm better than this, that I don't belong here".

The New York Times

"In Alzheimer's, we are coming to realize that it's more difficult to treat after there are symptoms," Bateman says.

The New York Times - Magazine

But people are coming to realize that these seemingly wasted plots where land meets water provide a valuable ecological service.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the subject clearly experiences the realization, making it a personal and internal process.

Common error

Avoid using "coming to realize" when describing an event or fact becoming known generally. Instead, use it when specifying that a particular person or group is experiencing the realization themselves.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "coming to realize" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as the subject or part of the verb phrase within a sentence. It describes an ongoing process of understanding, supported by Ludwig's examples showcasing its flexibility in expressing evolving awareness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "coming to realize" is a versatile gerund phrase used to describe a gradual shift in understanding or awareness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While appropriate for both formal and informal settings, it is crucial to ensure that the realization is attributed to a specific subject. Alternatives like "coming to understand" or "starting to understand" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. The phrase's prevalence highlights its effectiveness in conveying evolving perspectives and insights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

coming to understand

Focuses more on the intellectual grasp of a concept rather than the realization aspect.

coming to acknowledge

Emphasizes the act of admitting or recognizing something, potentially after resisting it.

starting to understand

Highlights the beginning of the understanding process.

beginning to see

Suggests a visual metaphor for understanding, implying clarity is emerging.

gradually realizing

Emphasizes the slow and incremental nature of the realization.

slowly becoming aware

Focuses on the increasing awareness, often of something previously unnoticed.

dawning on someone

Implies a sudden and impactful realization.

it is becoming clear

Shifts the focus to the situation becoming more evident, rather than personal realization.

gaining insight into

Highlights the acquisition of a deeper understanding.

waking up to

Suggests a sudden awakening to a truth or reality.

FAQs

What does "coming to realize" mean?

"Coming to realize" describes the gradual process of understanding or becoming aware of something, often after a period of reflection or experience.

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

You can use alternatives like "coming to understand", "starting to understand", or "beginning to see" depending on the context.

How do I use "coming to realize" in a sentence?

Use "coming to realize" to show a change in someone's understanding. For example, "She is coming to realize the importance of her health" or "They are coming to realize the impact of their actions."

Is "coming to realize" formal or informal?

"Coming to realize" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives like "coming to acknowledge" may be preferred in academic or professional writing.