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 My brain kept convincing me that I had been stung and just didn’t realize it. Jordan Greene, People.com, 19 June 2025 People are realizing that 'job security' doesn't mean much if your job doesn't pay enough to build a life on. Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025 Four years later, SpaceX launched the first batch of Starlink internet satellites, Starlink trains became a thing, and astronomers realized that the satellites, orbiting only 340 miles (550 kilometers) above Earth, were too bright not to interfere with their observations. Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 18 June 2025 Advertisement Her parents realized something was wrong, and Koziol started outpatient treatment for anorexia the summer after junior year. Charlotte Alter, Time, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for realize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for realize
Verb
  • Once the connection between Edwards and Campbell was discovered, the rest of Bravo's plan came to light, according to authorities.
    Doc Louallen, ABC News, 20 June 2025
  • Missing police sergeant discovered in extreme hoarding conditions after welfare check.
    , FOXNews.com, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • That drive has earned him admiration from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who lived in Wang's apartment for months during the pandemic.
    Harry Booth, Time, 22 June 2025
  • These lightweight, relaxed-fit bottoms have earned thousands of glowing reviews for their comfort and versatility, especially thanks to the flight-friendly elastic waistband.
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2025
Verb
  • By June 2023, the pair were spotted enjoying several outings in New York City, and the following month, they were seen holding hands outside of Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica, Calif., and kissing at Crossroads, a restaurant in West Hollywood.
    Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 14 June 2025
  • And while each panel covered a different domain, a clear through line emerged: women deserve personalized, proactive care that sees and serves them fully—brain, body and beyond.
    Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • But his passing, screening, cutting, and finishing are good enough to keep him on the floor and allow his employer to reap the benefits of his all-inclusive defensive package.
    Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • But his style has changed for the better, and the Pacers are reaping the benefits of late.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • To learn more about Blanco Ahumado, as well as the history and legacy of Clase Azul, visit claseazul.com.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 17 June 2025
  • Central to the trek is connecting with the region’s Sherpa people, and learning about their culture through song, dance, and food.
    Chloe Berge, Outside Online, 17 June 2025
Verb
  • The wider crypto sector has also been gaining political traction in the U.S. Legislators are promoting laws that seek regulatory clarity, and the Trump Administration has also shown support for cryptocurrencies.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • The cosmetics company unveiled its version of a longwear lip product in 2020, gained viral popularity in 2022, and saw a major resurgence in 2024 thanks to TikTok—momentum that’s continued into 2025.
    Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 9 June 2025
Verb
  • If the sky turns ominous and thunder can be heard, find a secure place for shelter.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 19 June 2025
  • At one point, the gallery could hear the faint sound of heavy breathing, and the judge reminded jurors to make sure that their headphones were fully on because the microphone feed appeared to be picking up the video.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 19 June 2025
Verb
  • The Mercury managed to hold off Breanna Stewart’s 35-point performance by winning the fourth quarter, 25-16, and eventually win the game 89-81 at Barclays Center on Thursday night.
    Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 20 June 2025
  • The duo wound up the year 8-1, winning the district championship; an injury prevented the pair from competing at state.
    Gary Curreri, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Realize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/realize. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

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