realize
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈriːəlaɪz/
KK: /ˈriːəlaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become aware of something or to understand it clearly.
Example
I didn't realize how much time had passed while I was reading.
Tense Forms
Past: realized
Past Participle: realized
Conversation
I didn't realize how much I enjoyed cooking until I tried a new recipe.
That's great! Cooking can be so much fun once you get into it.
Yeah, I always thought it was a chore, but now I love it.
It's amazing what we can discover when we realize our interests.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
recognize
understand
perceive
Antonyms
ignore
overlook
miss
transitive verb
Definition
To become aware of something or to understand it clearly; to make something real or to achieve it.
Example
She finally realized her dream of traveling the world.
Tense Forms
Past: realized
Past Participle: realized
Conversation
I just realized that I forgot to send the email again!
Oh no! That's the third time this week, right?
Yeah, I really need to set a reminder for it.
Root Explanation
Realize → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "alis" (from Latin "res" meaning thing or matter). The word means to make something real or to bring something into reality again.
Memory Tip
Think of 'making something real again' — 're-' means again, and 'alis' relates to things or matters.
Visually Confused Words
regalize
unrealize
oralize
unrealized
revivalize
revitalize
revalorize
reroyalize