Realise or Realize

Both "realise" and "realize" are verbs that mean to become aware of something, to understand, or to recognize a fact or truth, but "realise" is the British English spelling, while "realize" is the American English spelling. In essence, they are two versions of the same word, and their usage is interchangeable within their respective dialects.

What does realise/realize mean?

Both "realise" and "realize" are verbs that mean to become aware of something, to understand, or to recognize a fact or truth. They are used when a person comprehends or grasps a concept, idea, or situation.

British English (Realise)

In British English, you might write, "I realised that I had left my keys at home." Here, "realised" is the past tense form of the verb, indicating that you became aware of forgetting your keys.

American English (Realize)

In American English, the same sentence would be written as, "I realized that I had left my keys at home." Here, "realized" serves the same purpose as "realised" in British English, indicating the past tense of understanding or becoming aware of something.

Example sentences

After reviewing the evidence, she began to realise/realize that her initial assumptions were incorrect.
He didn't realise/realize how much he missed his hometown until he returned for a visit.
It took me a while to realise/realize the significance of her words, but now I understand.
She'll be pleased to realise/realize that her hard work has paid off with a promotion.
When he opened the old book, he started to realise/realize its historical value.
After reviewing the evidence, she began to realise/realize that her initial assumptions were incorrect.
He didn't realise/realize how much he missed his hometown until he returned for a visit.
It took me a while to realise/realize the significance of her words, but now I understand.
She'll be pleased to realise/realize that her hard work has paid off with a promotion.
When he opened the old book, he started to realise/realize its historical value.

Common idioms/phrases

Come to realise/realize: To gradually understand or become aware of something over time.
- He came to realize/realise the importance of spending time with his family.
Realise/Realize one's potential: To recognize and achieve one's full capabilities and talents.
- With hard work and determination, she was able to realize/realise her full potential as an artist.
Realise/Realize the gravity of the situation: To understand the seriousness or significance of a situation.
- It took him a while to realize/realise the gravity of his financial problems.
Realise/Realize one's dreams: To accomplish or achieve one's long-held goals or aspirations.
- After years of hard work, she finally realized/realised her dream of starting her own business.
Realise/Realize the error of one's ways: To recognize and acknowledge that one has been wrong or made a mistake.
- He realized/realised the error of his ways and apologized for his behavior.
Realise/Realize the truth: To come to understand or accept the reality of a situation.
- She finally realized/realised the truth about the company's unethical practices.

In summary, the choice between "realise" and "realize" depends on the variety of English being used. British English favors "realise," while American English prefers "realize." However, thanks to the global nature of the English language and increased exposure to both dialects, people often recognize and accept both spellings regardless of their regional background. Ultimately, the meaning and usage of the word remain consistent regardless of the chosen spelling.

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