contextualize it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contextualize it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain or provide background information about a particular subject or situation to enhance understanding. Example: "To fully appreciate the author's message, we need to contextualize it within the historical events of that time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

But contextualize it, understand that its origin is Québécois and not Canadian.

Vice

You have to contextualize it.

The New York Times

If material like this is going to be shown, then "we can contextualize it," Mr. Kleeblatt said.

The New York Times - Arts

Without the support of these established institutions it is difficult to make the case for this work and contextualize it.

The New York Times - Arts

When pushed to contextualize it, Pence would say Donald never made the donation in the first place, chuckling.

The Guardian

"We are not known for our postwar European art and have no work to contextualize it with".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

In those moments, Blake simultaneously acknowledges pain and contextualizes it.

The New Yorker

Throughout the book, Kelley plays down Monk's "weirdness," or at least contextualizes it.

The New York Times - Books

"It fits the core premise of librarianship, that it's not just about putting something in someone's hands but contextualizing it".

The New York Times - Arts

The way in which he carried out his crime, and the way his thoughts contextualized it, resembles role-playing, rather than political terrorism.

The New Yorker

Tonight, the National Chorale contextualizes it by performing it with other Mozart works: the "Ave Verum Corpus," also written in 1791, and a "Vesperae de Domenica" written 12 years earlier, just before the composer left Salzburg to try his luck in Vienna.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contextualize it", ensure you're providing specific details or background information that directly enhances the reader's understanding of the subject. Avoid generalizations.

Common error

Avoid over-contextualizing; providing too much unnecessary background information can distract from the main point. Focus on the most relevant details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contextualize it" functions as a directive, urging the action of providing context to enhance understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English. Its primary function is to call for clarity and comprehensive understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contextualize it" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that prompts the provision of background information to improve understanding. As Ludwig AI notes, it is indeed correct. Appearing most commonly in news and media and scientific contexts, it serves to encourage clarity and comprehensive understanding by placing information within a relevant framework. While the phrase is widely accepted, it's crucial to avoid over-contextualization, focusing instead on providing specific, relevant details. Alternatives such as "put it into context" and "frame it within its context" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put it into context

This alternative focuses on placing something within a broader frame of reference for better understanding.

frame it within its context

This emphasizes framing something within its surrounding circumstances to provide clarity.

provide background for it

This alternative highlights the act of supplying the necessary historical or situational information.

explain its significance

This focuses on elucidating the importance or relevance of something.

elucidate its meaning

This alternative suggests clarifying the intended meaning or interpretation of something.

interpret it in its setting

This suggests analyzing something based on its surrounding conditions and influences.

offer a perspective on it

This alternative emphasizes providing a particular viewpoint or angle for understanding.

give it perspective

Similar to the previous phrase, this highlights adding a sense of proportion or relative importance.

situate it historically

This focuses on placing something within its historical timeline and influences.

establish its relevance

This emphasizes proving or demonstrating the importance or connection of something.

FAQs

What does "contextualize it" mean?

To "contextualize it" means to provide background information, relevant details, or a framework that helps to understand something more fully. It involves placing something within its proper context to reveal its meaning or significance.

How can I "contextualize it" effectively in my writing?

To "contextualize it" effectively, start by identifying the key aspects of the subject that might be unclear to your audience. Then, provide historical background, cultural context, or other relevant information that sheds light on these aspects, linking the context directly to your main points.

What are some alternatives to "contextualize it"?

You can use alternatives like "put it into context", "frame it within its context", or "provide background for it" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it necessary to "contextualize it" in writing?

It's necessary to "contextualize it" when the subject matter is unfamiliar to your audience, when its significance might not be immediately apparent, or when understanding its background is crucial for grasping its meaning.