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 Getting a project like Clapham over the line came with various challenges, such as realizing a common has stricter guidelines than a park. Eduardo Tansley, New York Times, 19 June 2025 Employers may not realize workers previously authorized are now unable to work legally. Stuart Anderson, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025 But the judges first should realize that the Constitution gives them little right to second-guess the executive’s exercise of powers over the military during an emergency. Robert J. Delahunty, National Review, 19 June 2025 Although in-the-know locals flock here on the weekends, most beach connoisseurs don't even realize this pristine seven-mile stretch of paradise exists. Kara Franker, Southern Living, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for realize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for realize
Verb
  • The final film in the Unwrapping Christmas series follows gift-wrapping expert Olivia, who gets snowed in at a remote cabin, only to discover her ex-boyfriend Benjamin is living there.
    Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 1 July 2025
  • Time to move onward and upward on your path to discovering your highest vibrational self this year.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • My years in publishing had trained me to believe that personhood would have to be earned, like a gold star or a promotion, which was more likely just a title change with no raise.
    Maris Kreizman July 1, Literary Hub, 1 July 2025
  • Cities are not required to assist with federal immigration law, but actively obstructing it could earn Mamdani federal charges.
    Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • What areas in Texas have flooded? Can't see our graphics?
    George Petras, USA Today, 8 July 2025
  • According to statements from camp officials and survivors, Eastland was last seen leading a group of girls from a cabin trying to get them to safety.
    Preston Fore, Fortune, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • To reap these benefits, time is certainly of the essence.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • Those bold enough to double down on inclusion will reap both financial returns and a strategic moat, while their competitors hemorrhage talent and credibility.
    Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • The jail currently offers programs for inmates to learn construction or culinary skills.
    Stephen Hudak, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 June 2025
  • The idea for the monthly reviews felt like a natural progression from what Hearn has learned from his experience in the world of work.
    Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 June 2025
Verb
  • But that brief overlap sparked a lifelong friendship, and Gallagher watched from afar over the years as Brewer gained prominence in the San Diego legal community.
    Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 July 2025
  • Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to gain access.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • If the sky becomes threatening and thunder can be heard, find a safe place to shelter.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025
  • If the sky turns ominous and thunder can be heard, find a secure place for shelter.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • But Penn State, which licenses intellectual property to create vintage and throwback apparel, won.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 1 July 2025
  • What’s better than buying winning lottery jackpot tickets?
    David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Realize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/realize. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on realize

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