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 affordable residences, known as Trillium Senior Apartments, would be part of a 661-unit project that the Santa Clara County Housing Authority envisions for a site just east of downtown where a hospital once operated. George Avalos, Mercury News, 29 May 2026 While the initial focus is interior work, Orbit Robotics envisions a broader role that includes satellite servicing and in-space construction. Omar Kardoudi may 29, New Atlas, 29 May 2026 Problems pile up The LCS was envisioned as a key component of US naval power in areas dominating current headlines, like the Persian Gulf, where the US and Israel are at war with Iran, and the South China Sea, where the US and its allies are defending freedom of navigation. Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 28 May 2026 The 2026 Ford Maverick is a solid truck for drivers who may have never envisioned themselves owning a pickup. Charles Singh, USA Today, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for envision
Recent Examples of Synonyms for envision
Verb
  • Even in the most difficult moments, children still deserve to laugh, imagine and just be kids.
    Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 3 June 2026
  • And our founders always imagined our system would evolve.
    Ana Zamora, Time, 3 June 2026
Verb
  • Montenegro and Albania are seen as the frontrunners among the Western Balkans, while Ukraine and Moldova are moving closer to opening formal membership talks.
    Sam Meredith, CNBC, 4 June 2026
  • The 29-year-old checked out of the game and was seen limping back to the locker room as the first quarter came to an end.
    Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 4 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Envision.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envision. Accessed 6 Jun. 2026.

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