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 Researchers envision these floating robots serving as emotional companions, ambient assistants and household helpers, opening a new frontier for everyday human-robot interaction. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026 When the Cubs selected Hartshorn in the 2025 sixth round, ultimately going way over slot at $2 million to sway him from going the college route, the organization envisioned big things for the first baseman/outfielder who only turned 19 in February. Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 12 July 2026 Chang envisions a future where every citizen's voice, like his daughter Sydney's, counts equally, and technology fosters community dialogue rather than division. John Werner, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026 Passionate about travel and the arts, Pritzker envisioned a boutique, luxury hotel with an emphasis on personalized service and elevated dining. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for envision
Recent Examples of Synonyms for envision
Verb
  • Whether real or imagined, the stigma is there, making this particular crisis one that Taco Bell needs to address in full force.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 17 July 2026
  • What comes next is going to be strange and, at times, controversial (imagine animal studies in this coming era).
    Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 17 July 2026
Verb
  • Mercedes-Benz Stadium might never again see two comebacks like the ones engineered by Messi in Atlanta.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 16 July 2026
  • She’s seen during a dance rehearsal, a silly social media clip, and onstage from their Lollapalooza set, the latter of which came before her announcement in February to step away from Katseye.
    Jaeden Pinder, Rolling Stone, 15 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Envision.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envision. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on envision

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster