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 Vergne will be in charge of overseeing the museum’s public programming, exhibitions and artistic direction, as well as strengthening relationships with international partner institutions and re-envisioning the museum’s curatorial scope. News Desk, Artforum, 4 June 2026 Out June 5, the film stars Rudd, opposite Nick Jonas, as an aging musician who never got the rock-star life or career that his younger self had envisioned. Lacey Rose, HollywoodReporter, 3 June 2026 Freeman envisioned the steep bluff as a natural amphitheater and arranged the villas on staggered terraces that hug the headland to ensure unobstructed ocean views over the roofs below. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 The world has changed, though maybe not in the way that Walt Disney envisioned. Robert Niles, Oc Register, 2 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Envision.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/envision. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.

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