C1noun2K

Realization

UK /["/ˌriːəlaɪˈzeɪʃn//ˌrɪəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌriːələˈzeɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the process of becoming aware of something

In simple words: Understanding something clearly or becoming aware of it.

Examples

  • As realization dawned, he went pale.
  • the sudden realization of what she had done
  • There is a growing realization that changes must be made.
  • The realization that the murderer must have been a close friend came as a shock.
  • We saw the terrible realization of what she'd done dawn on her face.
  • The realization of what she had done suddenly hit her.
  • There came a sense of disbelief and then a dawning realization that he was actually gone.
  • the gradual realization that they were losing the war
  • It was the realization of his greatest ambition.
  • the realization of political goals

Usage notes

Use 'realization' when someone suddenly understands or discovers something important. It's neutral and suitable for both spoken and written contexts, but avoid it in casual slang conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'real' + 'ize' — like making something real in your mind.

Collocations

  • full
  • dawning
  • growing
  • come to
  • come (to somebody)
  • dawn (on somebody)
  • hit somebody

Synonyms

  • awareness
  • achievement

Antonyms

  • ignorance
  • unawareness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'realise' and 'realization' — remember 'realization' is a noun.
  • Using 'realization' in formal writing where a simpler word like 'understanding' may be more appropriate.
  • Mixing up with 'realistic' — they have different meanings.