Realize
ˈriːəlaɪz
Definitions
3 meaningsTo understand or become aware of something.
ˈriːəlaɪz
To become aware of something; to understand.
She didn't realize the danger she was in.
💡 Simply: It's like when a lightbulb goes on in your head, and you finally *get* something! Like, you might realize your friend is actually a great singer when you hear them at karaoke.
👶 For kids: To suddenly understand something or find out something.
More Examples
I suddenly realized my mistake.
After the exam, I realized I hadn't studied enough.
How It's Used
"I didn't realize how late it was until I looked at the clock."
"Students realized the importance of studying after failing the test."
To make something a reality; to accomplish or achieve.
ˈriːəlaɪz
To make something real or actual; to achieve.
The team realized their goal of winning the championship.
💡 Simply: To *make* something happen, to bring it to life! Like when you're planning a party and you actually *realize* it – all the food, music, and guests!
👶 For kids: To make something come true or happen.
More Examples
The company aims to realize its expansion plans.
He realized his ambition to travel the world.
How It's Used
"The company hopes to realize a profit by the end of the year."
"She realized her dream of becoming a doctor."
To convert (assets) into cash or money.
ˈriːəlaɪz
To convert assets into cash.
The fund manager realized a profit by selling the stock.
💡 Simply: Imagine turning your possessions into money, like when you sell something to get cash. It's like *realizing* the value of what you own.
👶 For kids: To change something into money, like selling a toy to get cash.
More Examples
The company will realize its investment during the next quarter.
He realized the value of his property by selling it.
How It's Used
"The company needed to realize its assets in order to pay off its debts."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
realize on something
To gain from something; to take advantage of.
"The company realized on the market trends to increase sales."
From French réaliser, from réel (real) + -iser (a suffix meaning 'to make' or 'to become'). Ultimately from Latin realis, meaning 'real, actual'.
Originally, 'realize' primarily meant to make real or to give reality to something. Its usage evolved to encompass the meaning of understanding and becoming aware.
Memory tip
Picture yourself suddenly *real*-izing a hidden truth.
Word Origin
"to make real"