realized that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "realized that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "realized that" when you want to say that you became aware of something. For example: I realized that I had left my wallet at home when I tried to pay for my coffee.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He realized that was his job".

The New York Times - Arts

I realized that would be impossible.

The New York Times - Magazine

But she soon realized that wasn't true.

The New Yorker

I realized that was foolish, ultimately.

The New York Times

But he quickly realized that wasn't true.

The New York Times - Books

"Then I realized that makes sense.

Los Angeles Times

He realized that effort wasn't enough.

Los Angeles Times

Even God realized that.

The New York Times

I just now realized that".

The New Yorker

On Sunday, he realized that.

The New York Times - Sports

Then I realized that I was fortunate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, "realized that" can add authenticity to a character's internal monologue or spoken revelation.

Common error

Avoid beginning multiple consecutive sentences with "I realized that". This can make your writing repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "it dawned on me" or "I understood" for a more engaging narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "realized that" functions as a connector introducing a clause that expresses a sudden understanding or awareness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "realized that" is a versatile and frequently used expression for indicating a moment of understanding or awareness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's suitable for a wide range of contexts, from informal conversations to formal writing, though more sophisticated alternatives may be preferred in highly formal settings. Remember to vary your sentence structure to avoid overuse. "Realized that" is most commonly found in News & Media, as it provides a clear and concise way to convey shifts in understanding within a narrative or explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

understood that

This is a more straightforward synonym, focusing on the comprehension aspect of realization.

became aware that

This option highlights the gaining of knowledge or consciousness about something.

recognized that

This suggests acknowledging something previously known or suspected but not fully appreciated.

came to the conclusion that

This phrase indicates a more deliberate process of reaching an understanding, suggesting a logical deduction.

it became clear that

This alternative emphasizes clarity and obviousness in the understanding.

discovered that

This indicates finding out something new or previously unknown.

figured out that

This implies a process of reasoning or problem-solving leading to understanding.

it dawned on me that

This suggests a sudden realization, often implying surprise or unexpectedness.

grasped that

This suggests a firm and complete understanding of something.

ascertained that

This suggests a formal or investigative process of finding something out for certain.

FAQs

How can I use "realized that" in a sentence?

Use "realized that" to express a moment of understanding or becoming aware of something. For example, "I realized that I had forgotten my keys" shows a sudden awareness.

What are some alternatives to "realized that"?

Alternatives include "understood that", "became aware that", or "it dawned on me that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "realized that" formal or informal?

"Realized that" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider more sophisticated alternatives like "ascertained that".

Can "realized that" be used in academic writing?

Yes, "realized that" is perfectly acceptable in academic writing when describing a shift in understanding or a new awareness gained through research or analysis.