A2verb 1K

Realize

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈriːəlaɪz//ˈrɪəlaɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪz//ˈrɪəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzd//ˈrɪəlaɪzd/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪŋ//ˈrɪəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈriːəlaɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzd/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Realize

to understand or become aware of a particular fact or situation

In simple words: To understand something clearly.

Realize in a sentence

• I didn't realize how important that meeting was until it was too late.
• She began to realize that her dreams were within reach.
• Once he realized the truth, everything made sense.
• After the demonstration, we can realize how simple this technology is.
• To realize your goals, you must work hard and stay focused.

How to use Realize

Use 'realize' when you come to a new understanding or awareness of something. It's neutral and suitable for both spoken and written contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing where 'become aware of' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

realize + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'real eyes' — think of opening your eyes to see the truth.

Related words

Collocations with Realize

• fully
• dimly
• suddenly
• begin to
• come to
• make somebody
• with
• without realizing (something)

Synonyms for Realize

• convert
• make

Opposites of Realize

• ignore
• overlook
• miss

Common mistakes with Realize

• Confusing 'realize' with 'realised' in British English.
• Using 'realize' without an object (e.g. 'I realized that' is correct).
• Mixing up 'realize' with 'recognize'; they have different meanings.

Frequently asked questions about Realize

What does Realize mean?

To understand something clearly.

What is the definition of Realize?

to understand or become aware of a particular fact or situation

How do you use Realize in a sentence?

I didn't realize how important that meeting was until it was too late.

Can you give another example of Realize?

She began to realize that her dreams were within reach.

What are synonyms for Realize?

Common alternatives include convert, make.

What is the opposite of Realize?

Opposite meanings include ignore, overlook, miss.

What words go with Realize?

It commonly pairs with fully, dimly, suddenly, begin to, come to, make somebody, with, without realizing (something).

What are common mistakes when using Realize?

Confusing 'realize' with 'realised' in British English. Using 'realize' without an object (e.g. 'I realized that' is correct). Mixing up 'realize' with 'recognize'; they have different meanings.

How do you pronounce Realize?

US: /["/ˈriːəlaɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzd/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈriːəlaɪz//ˈrɪəlaɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪz//ˈrɪəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈriːəlaɪzd//ˈrɪəlaɪzd/","/ˈriːəlaɪzɪŋ//ˈrɪəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Realize?

Use 'realize' when you come to a new understanding or awareness of something. It's neutral and suitable for both spoken and written contexts. Avoid using it in very formal writing where 'become aware of' might be preferred.

What CEFR level is Realize?

"Realize" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.