Realized

ˈriːəlaɪzd

verbmediumVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

To understand or become aware of something; to achieve or bring about (a goal or result).

ˈriːəlaɪzd

verbneutralmedium
General

To become fully aware of something as a fact; understand clearly.

She realized the importance of studying before the exam.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're solving a puzzle. When you 'realize' something, it's like the moment when the pieces click and you finally understand the solution! It can also mean making something happen, like 'realizing' your dream of starting a business.

👶 For kids: When you realize something, it's like when you finally understand something. Like when you get the answer to a puzzle!

More Examples

2

I suddenly realized that I had left my keys at home.

3

The company realized a significant profit after the restructuring.

4

He realized his ambition to become a doctor.

How It's Used

General

"He realized the danger too late."

Business

"The company realized a profit this quarter."

2

To cause something to happen or become a reality; to obtain.

ˈriːəlaɪzd

verbneutralmedium
Arts

To make something real or actual; achieve (a goal).

The project was finally realized after years of planning.

💡 Simply: It's like when you set a goal and work hard to make it happen! Or, if you have a special painting, you're 'realizing' it when you hang it on the wall, because now it's really part of your home.

👶 For kids: When you realize something, it's like making your dream come true, like when you finally get to play with your new toy!

More Examples

2

He realized his ambition of becoming a famous singer.

3

The company realized significant cost savings through the new technology.

4

The goals of the organization are to be realized in 5 years.

How It's Used

Finance

"The company realized a significant profit from the sale."

Politics

"The government realized its policy objectives."

Tip:Think of making something real, tangible.

Idioms & expressions

realize a dream

To make a long-held desire or ambition become a reality.

"She worked hard to realize her dream of opening her own bakery."

realize a profit

To obtain profit; to make a profit (typically in business or finance).

"The company was able to realize a profit after a successful quarter."

From Old French *realiser*, from Late Latin *realis* 'real'. The meaning evolved from 'make real, accomplish' to 'understand' (19th century).

The word evolved from meaning 'to make real' or 'accomplish' to the more common sense of 'to understand' in the 19th century.

Memory tip

Think of 'realizing' a dream – making it real in your mind first, and then in action.

realisereallizedrealised

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written