Synonym Chooser

How is the word realize distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of realize are conceive, envisage, envision, fancy, imagine, and think. While all these words mean "to form an idea of," realize stresses a grasping of the significance of what is conceived or imagined.

realized the enormity of the task ahead

When might conceive be a better fit than realize?

While the synonyms conceive and realize are close in meaning, conceive suggests the forming and bringing forth and usually developing of an idea, plan, or design.

conceived of a new marketing approach

How are the words envisage and envision related as synonyms of realize?

Both envisage and envision imply a conceiving or imagining that is especially clear or detailed.

envisaged a totally computerized operation
envisioned a cure for the disease

Where would fancy be a reasonable alternative to realize?

The words fancy and realize are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fancy suggests an imagining often unrestrained by reality but spurred by desires.

fancied himself a super athlete

When can imagine be used instead of realize?

The words imagine and realize can be used in similar contexts, but imagine stresses a visualization.

imagine you're at the beach

When would think be a good substitute for realize?

The synonyms think and realize are sometimes interchangeable, but think implies the entrance of an idea into one's mind with or without deliberate consideration or reflection.

I just thought of a good joke

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of realize One of the most heartbreaking things about growing up and becoming an adult is realizing that your infallible role models are just as human and as flawed as everyone else – sometimes more so in the slightly unhinged world of professional wrestling. Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 25 July 2025 For the Diamondbacks, the first part of a potential sell-off has become realized. Zack Meisel, New York Times, 25 July 2025 In response to famines in East and West Africa, U.S. aid officials realized the need for a way to monitor global hunger. Nurith Aizenman, NPR, 25 July 2025 And, my fears were realized — the park was crowded. Tom Montgomery Fate, Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for realize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for realize
Verb
  • In the meantime, the Smiths hired their own analyst and discovered that all the emails had originated in the United States, not abroad.
    Caroline Blair, People.com, 27 July 2025
  • He was discovered about 9 a.m. on near mile marker 183.
    Keith Sharon, Nashville Tennessean, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • Brosnahan earned widespread recognition and her first Emmy nomination for guest starring as Rachel Posner on House of Cards.
    Olivia Singh, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • The sandy shores are combed for seaweed and trash nightly, which earned the town a Blue Wave certification.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • At Holland State Park, which is run by the state and hasn’t seen lifeguards in three decades, there’s talk among Park Township officials of implementing a lifeguard pilot program.
    Tresa Baldas, Freep.com, 21 July 2025
  • Here are the richest suburbs of other big cities Don’t see your city or suburb on the Top 10?
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 20 July 2025
Verb
  • Of course, red meat isn't for everyone, and for those looking to reap the benefits without sinking their teeth into steak, there are alternatives.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
  • The Future Of Sports Coverage ESPN is reaping rewards from its bet on McAfee in a media environment seemingly driven by algorithms and outrageous takes.
    Nicole Kraft, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
Verb
  • At the nearby Hershey Story Museum, kids can learn about the history of chocolate and how to make it.
    Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 23 July 2025
  • Successful people are always learning—not always managing.
    Anne Sugar, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Verb
  • Alumni from Fox News have been some of the most successful in navigating these waters, with both Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly gaining traction with audiences who no longer require a cable subscription to interact with their favorite program or celebrity.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 15 July 2025
  • From the twins and their parents to evil fiancées and housekeepers, the characters have gained a cult following since their release, with some fans using them as inspiration for their outfits, summer mood boards, and interior design.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Powell held up both Irwin and Grace while their friends and family off-screen could be heard laughing at the sight.
    Hannah Sacks, People.com, 25 July 2025
  • Alone at night, Mike hears the animatronics nearby.
    Allison DeGrushe Published, EW.com, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • Who won Head of Household on 'Big Brother'? Who is on the block on 'Big Brother'?
    David Wysong, The Enquirer, 26 July 2025
  • Today, women in NHRA have amassed an impressive resume, with more than 100 women having won at an NHRA national event and athletes like two-time Top Fuel champion Brittany Force paving the way as the fastest person in NHRA history, setting a national record of 3.62-seconds at 341.59-mph.
    Caroline Fitzgerald, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Realize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/realize. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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