Definition of envisionnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word envision distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of envision are conceive, envisage, fancy, imagine, realize, and think. While all these words mean "to form an idea of," 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

In what contexts can conceive take the place of envision?

Although the words conceive and envision have much in common, conceive suggests the forming and bringing forth and usually developing of an idea, plan, or design.

conceived of a new marketing approach

When can fancy be used instead of envision?

The meanings of fancy and envision largely overlap; however, fancy suggests an imagining often unrestrained by reality but spurred by desires.

fancied himself a super athlete

When is it sensible to use imagine instead of envision?

While the synonyms imagine and envision are close in meaning, imagine stresses a visualization.

imagine you're at the beach

When is realize a more appropriate choice than envision?

The synonyms realize and envision are sometimes interchangeable, but realize stresses a grasping of the significance of what is conceived or imagined.

realized the enormity of the task ahead

When could think be used to replace envision?

The words think and envision can be used in similar contexts, 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 envision The late architect envisioned projections on Disney Hall, a chamber music venue, jazz club and better pedestrian connections to unlock the area’s potential. Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026 Mamdani initially envisioned a $1 billion-per-year agency that would dispatch civilian workers, instead of police, in non-criminal emergencies. ABC News, 19 Mar. 2026 The adaptation is envisioned as a focused first season designed to introduce the world and mythology of the series while establishing a long-running narrative engine. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 17 Mar. 2026 But now, nearly a year-and-a-half later, that next chapter isn’t looking as hopeful as originally envisioned. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for envision
Recent Examples of Synonyms for envision
Verb
  • Who knows what inventions, ideas or technological feats will be imagined in gyms or on surfboards as these three Southern California teenagers unleash their brain power and love for having fun on the East Coast.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Within half a year, that detail — obsessively imagined, harped on, even — was up for debate again.
    Eric Boodman, Vulture, 25 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Melanie Benesh from the Environmental Working Group, which has worked closely with Gabriel throughout the years on his legislation, said if the bill were to be passed, shoppers could see the seals on breads, yogurts, snacks and cereals.
    Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 26 Mar. 2026
  • The Current did not call upon any of Croix Bethune, Debinha, Lo LaBonta, Michelle Cooper, and Ellie Bravo-Young in the starting lineup, as Armas opted for rotation given a road trip that sees KC play three games in seven days.
    Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 26 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Envision.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envision. Accessed 28 Mar. 2026.

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