to realize this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to realize this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the understanding or acknowledgment of a particular situation, concept, or fact. Example: "After much contemplation, I finally began to realize this: success requires consistent effort and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's disturbing to realize this.

The New Yorker

When are we going to realize this?

The New Yorker

I started to realize this wasn't uncommon.

The New York Times

Ms. Tymoshenko seems to realize this.

The New York Times

Israelis have begun to realize this.

The New Yorker

Even Mr. Dunn seems to realize this.

The New York Times - Arts

It's extremely important to realize this.

Cornell University

It was an intense experience to realize this.

The New Yorker

A few weeks ago, Romney seemed to realize this.

The New York Times

"People have to realize this is a subjective sport.

The New York Times - Sports

It doesn't take a highway technician to realize this.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to realize this" when you want to emphasize the moment of understanding or recognition of a fact, situation, or concept. This phrase is particularly effective when highlighting a shift in perspective or awareness.

Common error

While "to realize this" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal academic or business writing. Opt for stronger verbs like "recognize", "understand", or "comprehend" to maintain a more professional tone. For example, instead of saying "Researchers needed to realize this effect", consider "Researchers needed to understand this effect".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to realize this" is to act as an infinitive phrase that introduces a clause explaining the object of realization or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

31%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to realize this" is a common and grammatically sound way to express understanding or recognition, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage spans diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia, indicating its versatility. While generally neutral, more formal alternatives like "understand" or "recognize" might suit academic or business writing better. When using "to realize this", consider its role in signaling a shift in perspective or awareness and choose it when emphasizing the moment of comprehension. Its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The New York Times and Forbes underscores its acceptance and widespread use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to understand this

Focuses on comprehension rather than the act of making something real or achievable.

to grasp this

Emphasizes the mental act of seizing or understanding something quickly and fully.

to comprehend this

Highlights a thorough and complete understanding of the subject.

to appreciate this

Implies a valuing or recognition of the significance of something, not just understanding it.

to recognize this

Focuses on identifying or acknowledging something as being true or valid.

to achieve this

Shifts the focus from understanding to the accomplishment of a goal or objective.

to accomplish this

Similar to "achieve", this emphasizes the successful completion of something.

to attain this

Suggests a more formal or ambitious achievement than simply "realizing" something.

to make this happen

More active and emphasizes causing something to occur or be implemented.

to bring this about

Implies causing something to occur, often through deliberate action or effort.

FAQs

What does "to realize this" mean?

The phrase "to realize this" means to come to understand or become aware of a particular fact, situation, or concept. It implies a moment of recognition or comprehension.

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

You can use "to realize this" to introduce a clause explaining what someone has come to understand. For example: "After many attempts, they began "to realize this" project was more complex than initially anticipated."

What are some alternatives to "to realize this"?

Alternatives include "to understand this", "to grasp this", or "to comprehend this", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of understanding or recognition.

Is "to realize this" formal or informal?

The phrase "to realize this" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or academic writing, stronger verbs like "recognize" or "understand" may be preferred.