start to realize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start to realize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the beginning of an understanding or awareness of something. Example: "As I reflected on my experiences, I began to start to realize the importance of self-care in my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We start to realize what's most important.

The New York Times

Also, you may start to realize that you need less.

The New York Times

But when you're 50, I'll bet, you start to realize.

The New York Times

Hopefully, people will start to realize that we're pretty good".

The New York Times - Sports

Yes, you do start to realize that your time is limited.

The New York Times

As you get older you start to realize you have to make the best of it.

The New York Times

Only later did I start to realize how important it was to our fans.

The New York Times

You start to realize what burdens our hero has to bear.

The New Yorker

"You start to realize all the parts of infrastructure that are needed," he said.

The New York Times - Food

It's at that point that you start to realize how brilliantly constructed the play is.

The New York Times

"They start to realize how far away they are from the pros.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "start to realize" to describe a gradual shift in understanding or awareness, rather than a sudden epiphany. This is particularly effective when narrating a process of learning or discovery.

Common error

While "start to realize" is common, overuse can weaken your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "begin to understand" or "come to see" for a more nuanced effect.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "start to realize" is that of a phrasal verb, indicating the commencement of a cognitive process. It reflects an initial phase of understanding something, as demonstrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start to realize" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to express the beginning of an understanding or awareness. As Ludwig AI points out, it's versatile enough for various contexts, particularly in news and media, and can be replaced with alternatives like "begin to comprehend" for a more nuanced effect. However, be mindful of overuse to maintain writing clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become aware of

Indicates the process of being informed about something.

come to understand

Highlights the arrival at a state of understanding after a period.

begin to comprehend

This suggests an initial phase of grasping a concept or situation.

develop an awareness

Highlights the creation of a conscious knowledge of something.

grow to understand

Focuses on the development of understanding over a period of time.

gradually understand

Emphasizes the slow and progressive nature of gaining understanding.

gain insight into

Suggests acquiring a deeper understanding of a complex issue.

begin to appreciate

Focuses on the initial development of valuing something.

slowly recognize

Implies a delayed acknowledgment or awareness of something.

dawn on someone

Expresses a sudden realization that comes unexpectedly.

FAQs

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

You can use "start to realize" to describe a gradual understanding. For example, "As I gained experience, I "start to realize" the importance of teamwork." Alternatively, you might "begin to understand" or "come to see".

What phrases are similar to "start to realize"?

Similar phrases include "begin to comprehend", "gradually understand", and "become aware of". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "starting to realize" instead of "start to realize"?

Yes, "starting to realize" is a grammatically correct alternative, conveying a similar meaning of initiating understanding. Both ""start to realize"" and "starting to realize" are acceptable depending on the intended emphasis.

What's the difference between "start to realize" and "suddenly realize"?

"Start to realize" suggests a gradual process of understanding, while "suddenly realize" implies an immediate and unexpected moment of insight.