not realize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not realize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a lack of awareness or understanding about something. Example: "I did not realize how much effort it would take to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Does she not realize?" one asks.

The New York Times

The students may not realize it.

The New York Times

She did not realize just how hard.

The New York Times

"He probably did not realize," he said.

The New York Times

Some did not realize what was happening.

The New York Times

He did not realize it, of course.

The New York Times - Science

Individual bondholders would not realize any losses unless they sold.

The New York Times

They did not realize their honor needed defending.

The New York Times

"I did not realize how it would be," he said.

The New York Times

He does not realize the significance of this maneuver.

The New Yorker

Lange said: "I did not realize that's my wife.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not realize", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is unaware of. Providing specific details enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "not realize" in the present tense when referring to a past event. Use the past tense form "did not realize" or "had not realized" for past situations to maintain grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not realize" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express a lack of awareness or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms this is a grammatically correct and usable expression. It often introduces a clause explaining what was not understood or perceived.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not realize" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a lack of awareness or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. When using "not realize", consider alternatives such as "be unaware of" or "fail to grasp" to add nuance to your writing. Ensure correct tense usage, particularly when referring to past events, to avoid grammatical errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be unaware of

Indicates a state of lacking knowledge about something.

fail to grasp

Suggests an inability to understand or comprehend something.

not be conscious of

Highlights a lack of awareness or perception.

not apprehend

Implies a formal or intellectual failure to understand.

miss the significance of

Focuses on failing to understand the importance of something.

overlook

Indicates a failure to notice or consider something.

be oblivious to

Emphasizes a complete lack of awareness.

not appreciate

Highlights a failure to understand or value something.

be ignorant of

Implies a lack of knowledge or information.

not fathom

Suggests an inability to understand something complex or profound.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "not realize"?

You can use alternatives like "be unaware of", "fail to grasp", or "overlook" depending on the context.

How to use "not realize" in a sentence?

You can use "not realize" to indicate a lack of awareness or understanding. For example: "I did not realize how difficult the task would be" or "They may not realize the consequences of their actions".

What's the difference between "not realize" and "do not understand"?

"Not realize" implies a lack of awareness, whereas "do not understand" suggests a failure to comprehend. You might "not realize" something without trying to understand it, but if you "do not understand", you've likely attempted to comprehend it.

Is it better to say "not realize" or "fail to recognize"?

Both are acceptable, but "not realize" is more general. "Fail to recognize" implies a specific failure to identify or acknowledge something. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.